NFL Rumors: Injury Update On Chargers' QB Justin Herbert

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert aggravated his high right ankle sprain in Sunday’s 20-10 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, marking the second time in six weeks the injury has flared up.

Herbert, who originally hurt the ankle in Week 2, was sacked by linebacker Elandon Roberts in the third quarter, worsening the injury.

Despite throwing a first-half touchdown to Quentin Johnston, Herbert’s mobility deteriorated throughout the game. "I had a tough time walking on it, moving on it, pushing off of it," Herbert said after the game, seen in a protective boot. "I pushed myself, but I couldn’t do it anymore."

Justin Herbert is walking off and Taylor Heinicke has stepped in pic.twitter.com/maJClHgIo8
— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) September 22, 2024

Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh decided to pull Herbert after the sack.

"Justin’s too tough to take himself out, so I made the decision," Harbaugh explained. Backup Taylor Heinicke stepped in but struggled against the Steelers' defense, completing two passes for 24 yards while being sacked twice.

The Chargers’ offensive line was also hit hard, with left tackle Rashawn Slater exiting the game due to a pectoral injury, compounding the team's challenges.

Here’s Justin Herbert in the walking boot. He said he thinks the injury is a reaggravation of the high ankle sprain and nothing more serious. He’s hoping to play against KC pic.twitter.com/oMQMyQvmOu
— Kris Rhim (@krisrhim1) September 22, 2024

Herbert’s status for next week’s crucial AFC West matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs remains uncertain.

Harbaugh emphasized the need to prioritize Herbert’s long-term health, saying, "We’ll take a ‘wait and see’ approach, but his health is our priority."

Photo Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images