Justin Herbert Optimistic About Playing Against Chiefs Despite Ankle Injury

Herbert’s Determination to Play Following Week 3 Injury

On Wednesday, Justin Herbert, quarterback for the Los Angeles Chargers, expressed his resolve to participate in the upcoming game against the Kansas City Chiefs. This comes after aggravating a high right ankle sprain during the Week 3 defeat against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Herbert voiced his commitment to recovery, stating he’s “making every effort possible” to be fit for Sunday’s match.

Uncertainty Surrounding Herbert’s Status

Herbert acknowledged that the situation remains uncertain. “It’s still early days,” he said. Herbert stressed the importance of continuing his recovery regimen in the gym and through therapy. “Progress is the objective. Last week, I was unsure too, so it’s about maximizing every training opportunity and seeing where it leads,” he voiced.

The Chargers are scheduled for a Week 5 bye, and while there have been talks about Herbert resting his ankle this Sunday, he mentioned he doesn’t believe that’s the course they’re taking.

Practice Participation and Progress Report

Herbert was listed as a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice. He shared that he took part in 7-on-7 drills and felt good about his ankle. He sees his participation as an improvement since he missed practice last Wednesday due to the same injury.

“I’m feeling better than I did last Wednesday,” Herbert stated. “As long as we keep progressing and improving, we’re not experiencing setbacks. I believe we’re moving in the right direction.”

Details of Sunday’s Injury

The injury occurred during the third quarter of Sunday’s 20-10 loss to the Steelers. Herbert was tackled by outside linebacker Elandon Roberts and rose with a noticeable limp. He handed the ball off to running back J.K. Dobbins on the next play but then limped to the sideline and had his ankle evaluated by athletic trainers. He left the stadium in a walking boot but had removed it by Tuesday. Taylor Heinicke replaced him.

Herbert’s Outlook for Sunday’s Game

If Herbert makes it to the field on Sunday, he might be missing key offensive linemen Rashawn Slater (pectoral) and Joe Alt (MCL sprain), both of whom did not practice on Wednesday. Regardless, Herbert remains confident in the team’s reserves and is not overly worried about worsening his injury on Sunday.

“I don’t believe worrying does much good,” he commented. “It’s a day-by-day process to see how it feels, and if it’s a problem, then it’s unsafe and unwise to play, but the situation has improved.”