Chargers uncertain if Justin Herbert will play in Week 3
As the Los Angeles Chargers prepare for Week 3 action against the Pittsburgh Steelers, star quarterback Justin Herbert is doing so working through an ankle injury.
Head coach Jim Harbaugh voiced on Wednesday that Herbert’s ankle is improving, but it remains a lingering issue. Despite that, he expects his quarterback to play against the Steelers.
“Crystal ball?” Harbaugh said when asked if there’s a possibility Herbert doesn’t play via ESPN. “[I] expect him to get better every day.”
The injury occurred during the third quarter of Sunday’s 26-3 win over the Carolina Panthers when Herbert attempted to move out of the pocket but was tackled from behind by linebacker DJ Johnson. At the same time, he made face-first contact with defensive end Jayden Peevy, resulting in his lower body becoming trapped under Johnson.
Herbert remained in the game but finished it while walking with a limp. There hasn’t been any significant concern that it will force him to miss time. If he were to sit out, Easton Stick would step in.
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Herbert has experienced notable low production through the first two games, posting 274 passing yards with three touchdowns and an interception while holding a 95.7 passer rating. The 26-year-old hasn’t had the weight of the offensive production strictly on his shoulders, as the Chargers hold the second-best rushing attack at 197.5 yards per game.
Running back JK Dobbins has a league-best 277 rushing yards along with two touchdowns while averaging 9.9 yards per carry. The Week 3 matchup against the Steelers will be the toughest test to begin the 2024 season.
