The Los Angeles Chargers officially listed quarterback Justin Herbert as questionable for this Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars because of his rib injury. On Thursday, Herbert tore his rib cartilage in a game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
In the fourth quarter, the Chiefs defensive end Mike Danna struck Herbert while he was attempting a pass. Herbert got hit directly in the ribcage and was left writhing on the ground in agony. He left the field but returned and scored a late touchdown drive.
From @GMFB: Thursday provided some good news for #Chargers QB Justin Herbert (ribs) and #Ravens QB Lamar Jackson (elbow). pic.twitter.com/cHug3bRbW5
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 23, 2022
The team’s doctors have been monitoring Herbert’s condition all week. Hebert made a limited appearance in practice on Wednesday and Thursday. A 14-year NFL veteran Chase Daniel was observed working with the first team during practice on Friday. Chargers later labeled Herbert questionable to participate in this Sunday’s game.
On Friday, Herbert responded to inquiries regarding his rib injury and recovery. Herbert said he was feeling well throughout practice on Thursday and would get lots of rest before warming up for the game on Sunday.
ready no matter what. pic.twitter.com/G8h0iq4gBx
— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) September 23, 2022
“There have definitely been improvements,” Herbert said. “Thankfully, we have a couple days left before we play. We don’t play today, and so that’s up to us, our team, to make the best decision so that we are ready to go on Sunday.”
Since being selected with the sixth overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, this is Herbert’s first significant injury. In 2014, while Herbert was a junior in high school, he broke his femur, then three years later, while playing for Oregon, he shattered his collarbone.
WR Keenan Allen (hamstring), RT Trey Pipkins (ankle) and TE Donald Parham (hamstring) are questionable for Sunday along with Justin Herbert. CB J.C. Jackson (ankle) and C Corey Linsley (knee) are doubtful.
— Daniel Popper (@danielrpopper) September 23, 2022
According to TSN, Herbert will wear a rib protector, and he may also get an injection to ease the discomfort. Coach Brandon Staley asserted that if Herbert cannot play, then Daniel would be his substitute.
“He’s tough. He doesn’t feel great, by any means, but he was able to go out there and throw the football,” Staley said.
Staley said that Herbert’s performance was good, and his throws were still on routes during Thursday’s practice.
“I think a lot of it was seeing his response to each throw — then, obviously, after practice, and then this morning,” Staley added. “We’re just going to keep knowing more as we go.”
#Chargers QB Justin Herbert said not throwing today was part of the of the plan.
Said he’s not sure if he’ll play, says that doesn’t have to be determined until Sunday.
Staley adds today was rest day for Herbert.
— Eric Smith (@Eric_L_Smith) September 23, 2022
Herbert’s comfort level will be the deciding factor in whether he plays or not, according to TSN. Herbert also said he remains unsure if he would play on Sunday, while adding that there was still some time to make that decision.
“We don’t play today, and so we play on Sunday,” Herbert said. “Whatever the plan is, I know our team is going to be prepared and do everything we can. That decision will be made on Sunday. Haven’t ruled anything out.”
Chargers QB Justin Herbert is still dealing with discomfort from his rib cartilage injury. Everyone's weighing risk/reward of playing him this Sunday vs. Jaguars. Chargers are currently practicing.
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) September 23, 2022
Point spread shifts
Though the Chargers haven’t made their decision regarding Herbert’s participation, sports bettors assert that Herbert will show up against the Jaguars. All week long, the Chargers were 7-point favorites. But the situation changed on Friday when the point spread fell to 3 points after many new bets on the Jaguars.
According to Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk, a loss of four points in a single day is highly uncommon and typically only occurs when the quarterback is hurt.
"It's up to us, our team to make the best decision." Justin Herbert on the plans for Sunday
— Bridget Condon (@BridgetCondon_) September 23, 2022
“Clearly, a lot of people who think Herbert is going to miss the game are putting money on the Jaguars, and the line is moving downward as a result,” David said.
Besides Herbert, Chargers’ questionable list includes top wide receiver Keenan Allen, starting right tackle Trey Pipkins, backup tight end Donald Parham, starting cornerback J.C. Jackson and starting center Corey Linsley. Jacksonville’s injury list only contains cornerback Shaquill Griffin, also marked as questionable.