Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert is battling through another injury. This time, it’s a sprained left ankle sustained during Sunday’s close loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Herbert’s Ankle Sprain: Not as Severe as Past Injuries
Herbert, who sat out practice on Wednesday, revealed the ankle injury and a thigh contusion from the Chiefs game. While acknowledging the pain, he expressed optimism that this sprain is less severe than a previous one he experienced earlier in the season. “I would say that this one is probably not as severe,” Herbert stated. “It’s definitely painful enough to be able to miss a practice, but I feel like I’ve been able to move around a little bit better this week than I did after Carolina, where I was put into a boot and had difficulty walking.”
The injury occurred on the Chargers’ opening drive. Herbert scrambled on a third-down play and was tackled by Chiefs defensive end Mike Danna, who landed on Herbert’s ankle. The quarterback limped off the field following the play.
“It was difficult to play with,” Herbert admitted. “It was one of those things that we kind of talked about where we kind of limited some of the runs. I didn’t feel great running out the pocket.”
Thigh Contusion Adds to Herbert’s Injury Woes
Adding to Herbert’s challenges, he sustained a thigh contusion late in the second quarter. While trying to throw a pass, he was hit midair by Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton. The impact sent Herbert sprawling to the ground in visible pain.
Despite these injuries, Herbert returned to finish the game without apparent limitations.
Coach Harbaugh Prioritizes Rest
Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh emphasized the importance of giving Herbert time to recover. “He’s one of those types of guys where football is the treatment, is the medicine,” Harbaugh humorously said. “But I missed four weeks last year, which wasn’t really my fault.” He ultimately prioritized Herbert’s well-being, knowing the quarterback’s dedication might otherwise lead him to push through the pain.
Herbert’s 2023 Injury History
This season has already been marked by injuries for Herbert. He missed two weeks of training camp due to a plantar fascia injury in his right foot and already navigated a high right ankle sprain. Now, he’s facing a thigh contusion and another ankle sprain.
His resilience in the face of adversity is admirable. Previously, Herbert has recovered from a fractured index finger that ended his season in 2022 and a fractured rib cartilage injury during the 2022-2023 season.
Looking ahead, Herbert displayed optimism about this latest ankle injury: “It could be a lot worse,” he said.