Jim Harbaugh gives promising Justin Herbert injury update Chargers fans hoped for

Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh talked about numerous things at the podium following the teams' 26-3 over the Panthers yesterday. But perhaps no update was more significant than what he said about the injury status of QB Justin Herbert.

Herbert sustained what looked like a rolled ankle in the third quarter of Sunday's game when he tried to extend a play that resulted in a fumble. He said postgame that he "must've just gotten rolled up" when asked about his limp after the play. At the time, Herbert said he had x-rays last night and would "know more in the next couple of days".

Today, Harbaugh struck a more positive tone on the injury at his presser. First, he confirmed that Herbert's x-rays were negative:

Chargers avoided a serious injury to Justin Herbert

Harbaugh seemed to insinuate that there could be further evaluations and tests on the ankle as the week goes on to make sure Herbert is ready for next Sunday.

It's worth noting that Herbert did not miss a play after being injured on the fumble. He briefly went into the blue medical tent and popped out with his helmet prior to the next drive of the third quarter.

Harbaugh was also asked about a supposed arm injury to Josh Palmer, but quickly stopped giving much in the realm of injury updates after providing info on Herbert. The teams' first injury report will drop on Wednesday, and that's when we're most likely to find out about players' updated statuses at the earliest.

The Chargers will practice in Carolina this week in accordance with Harbaugh's time zone-related practice schedule. Asked about the decision to remain in Charlotte, the Chargers' head coach said this:

"Getting the body clock right, cutting down on the travel time, not just in the air," Harbaugh said. "That's the main reason for doing it. The 10 AM West Coast body clock. Just what the studies have shown from people smarter than me."

If indeed Herbert did suffer a minor roll of his foot or ankle, it seems as though the Chargers will have avoided a worst case scenario. As long as there isn't any excess swelling or pain throughout the week, he probably wouldn't be slowed down too much in practice. However, LA could choose to play it safe and find a rest day on the practice schedule for Herbert.

Assuming Herbert is healthy and fully cleared by the medical staff, he'll lead the Chargers into a battle against the 2-0 Steelers in Pittsburgh next Sunday.