Chargers Get Encouraging Injury News on Justin Herbert Ahead of Crucial Matchup with Chiefs

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert continues to trend in the right direction as he prepares for Sunday’s massive Week 15 showdown against the Kansas City Chiefs. 

As Sports Illustrated noted, Nearly two weeks removed from surgery on his fractured non-throwing hand, Herbert delivered positive updates this week. 

He eased concerns about his availability and effectiveness heading into one of the most important games of the Chargers’ season. 

After undergoing precautionary X-rays following Monday night’s overtime win over the Philadelphia Eagles, Herbert confirmed that the results were clean. 

His recovery is progressing as expected.  

“Everything was clean for the most part,” Herbert said, via The Athletic’s Daniel Popper.  

“It’s just getting the swelling down and continuing to get full strength in it and continuing to do as much treatment as I can.” 

He added that the soreness was not unexpected after playing through the injury. 

“I think having played on it, using it and falling on it, too, kind of helped,” he said. 

“For the most part, it’s gotten a lot better. I feel like my grip strength has gotten better and just being able to use it has gotten better, too.” 

Herbert’s Status and Recovery Progress

Herbert has been listed as a limited participant on the Chargers’ midweek injury reports. 

All signs point toward him starting Sunday in Kansas City barring a late setback. 

The Chargers’ franchise quarterback gutted through a difficult performance against the Eagles on Monday in which he was sacked seven times. 

He threw for only 139 yards and a touchdown but his toughness was on full display in the win. 

According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Herbert was pressured on 68.3 percent of his dropbacks.

This was one of the highest rates in recent league history. 

Despite the challenges, Herbert never came off the field and even rushed for 66 yards, including a memorable stiff-arm attempt that showcased his toughness. 

“I thought it was a really tough day for the offense, especially for me,” Herbert admitted.

“I had two turnovers, I missed a lot of throws and played uncharacteristically. But I thought we did a great job battling all four quarters and in overtime.” 

Head coach Jim Harbaugh was far more glowing in his assessment.

He called Herbert’s performance “the most competitive thing I’ve ever seen in sports.”

This was a major testament to the quarterback’s leadership and resilience. 

The Importance of Matchup Vs. Chiefs 

Sunday’s matchup against the Chiefs carries massive implications for both the AFC West and the playoff picture. 

The Chargers enter the week at 9-4, while Kansas City has dropped four of its last five games and continues to search for answers. 

A win at Arrowhead Stadium would end the Chiefs season but it would also significantly boost LA’s postseason outlook.

According to The Athletic, the Chargers’ playoff odds currently sit at 78 percent and could jump to 95 percent with a win on Sunday.

Herbert understands the magnitude of the moment.

“You want to be playing memorable football in December and January,” he said.  

“Meaningful games. Going through games like that, it’s only going to help you in the long run.”

The Chargers currently trail the Broncos by two games and the AFC West but still play them one more time this season. 

Sunday’s matchup against the Chiefs has monumental playoff implications.

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