CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert suffered a strained right ankle but is feeling “much better,” coach Jim Harbaugh said Wednesday.
Harbaugh said quarterback Easton Stick would start if Herbert is unable to play, but said it’s too early to consider any hypothetical circumstances.
“Crystal Ball?” Harbaugh said when asked if there was a chance Herbert wouldn’t play.[I] “I expect him to get better every day.”
Herbert did not participate in practice Wednesday.
The injury occurred in the third quarter of Sunday’s 26-3 win over the Carolina Panthers. Herbert tried to get out of the pocket but was pulled from behind by linebacker DJ Johnson, and then was struck face-first by defensive end Jaden Peavy, trapping his lower body under Johnson.
Herbert walked off the field and into the medical tent with his trainer, but didn’t miss the snap. After the postgame press conference, Herbert walked with a significant limp.
This is the second injury Herbert has suffered this season. During training camp, he spent two weeks in a walking boot while dealing with a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. Herbert said he will have to monitor the injury throughout the season.
