Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert is determined to play against the Kansas City Chiefs this Sunday.
On Wednesday, Herbert reassured fans that he’s doing everything possible to play.
The 26-year-old re-aggravated an ankle sprain during the Chargers’ Week 3 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers and could not complete the match.
And although the Chargers have a Week 5 bye, Herbert said discussions about sitting out Sunday’s game to rest have happened, but he doesn’t believe that’s the plan.
Speaking to the media, he said: “I don’t think that’s the way we’re heading.
“I don’t know. It’s early. As long as we keep moving in the right direction [with] weight room [and] treatment, that’s always the goal.
competitors only pic.twitter.com/qbeSIIIooX
— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) September 25, 2024
“At this point last week, I didn’t know either, and so it’s one of those things that you take as many reps as you can, do what you can and see where it ends up.”
On Wednesday, Herbert was a limited participant in practice but saw this as progress.
He took part in some drills and reported his ankle was feeling better compared to the same time last week.
Herbert initially injured his ankle during the third quarter of the Chargers’ 20-10 loss to the Steelers.
After being sacked, he got up with a noticeable limp. Despite trying to continue, Herbert left the stadium in a walking boot.
He added: “I feel better than I did last Wednesday.
wednesday work pic.twitter.com/l5ckiHoS4P
— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) September 26, 2024
“And so as long as we keep moving forward and we keep getting better, we’re not taking those setbacks. I think we’re moving in the right direction.”
Backup quarterback Taylor Heinicke stepped in after Herbert’s departure last week.
If Herbert does suit up against the Chiefs, he may be without key protection, as offensive tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt (MCL sprain) did not practice on Wednesday.
Despite this, Herbert was unconcerned about potentially aggravating his injury again.
He said: “I don’t think worrying does too much. It doesn’t help too much.
“Take it day by day to see how it feels, and if it is an issue, then it’s not safe to go out there and not smart to go play, but it has gotten better.”
