Justin Herbert suffered a high ankle sprain in the LA Chargers' Week 2 win over the Carolina Panthers. After missing practice throughout the week, Herbert was able to tough it out and suit up for the Bolts in Week 3 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Herbert looked like his old self in the first half against the Steelers but that would not last. The star quarterback aggravated his injury in the third quarter after Cam Heyward fell on his lower right leg. Taylor Heinicke was swiftly put in the game and Herbert's long-term status officially became a question.
With so many injuries and a Derwin James suspension to go with them, many fans believe the Chargers should rest Herbert against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 4. Herbert is as tough as they come, though, so if he is able to play chances are he will force himself out there for the Bolts.
While there is no clear indication yet of whether or not Herbert will be able to play on Sunday, there is at least progress. Jim Harbaugh shared Herbert's progress on Wednesday after the star quarterback had an MRI on his ankle.
Chargers HC Jim Harbaugh says the MRI on Justin Herbert's ankle "shows that he's progressing".
— Alex Insdorf (@alexinsdorf99) September 25, 2024
He does not expect Rashawn Slater (pec), Joey Bosa (hip), or Joe Alt (MCL) to practice. Says Justin Herbert might practice. pic.twitter.com/ZKIq0auOKU
Justin Herbert is progressing in the right direction for the Chargers
Getting a positive result on the MRI is huge for Herbert and the Chargers. X-rays of Herbert's ankle initially came back negative but that did not tell the entire story as X-rays only look for bone damage. The MRI would show what kind of ligament damage there is, which is relevant for a high ankle sprain.
Harbaugh being encouraged about the MRI results is a good sign for Herbert and the Chargers. That does not guarantee he will play in Week 4, but it does potentially take the concern of Herbert severely aggravating the injury off the table.
Harbaugh also confirmed that Herbert is no longer in a walking boot. Herbert was seen wearing a walking boot after Sunday's loss, raising concerns about his long-term health.
Herbert's health will continue being a storyline heading into the Chargers' home game against the Kansas City Chiefs and it will likely continue being a storyline after the Week 5 bye as well. As great as it is to see Herbert progressing heading into Week 4, the Chargers need to keep the big picture in mind and protect him from himself if warranted.
At the very least, fans at least know that the Week 3 aggravation is not something that will have serious implications. But if the Chargers are not careful... anything can happen.