Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert left Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers with a reaggravated ankle injury, forcing backup Taylor Heinecke into action.
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert's injury concerns cast a shadow over the team's first loss of the season, a 20-10 defeat to the undefeated Pittsburgh Steelers. Herbert, who was initially questionable to play due to a high ankle sprain, aggravated the injury during the second quarter.
Entering the game, Herbert's status was uncertain. He had been limited in practice all week due to the ankle sprain, which he sustained in Week 2 against the Carolina Panthers. After being tested before the game, Herbert was cleared to play.
Justin Herbert's Injury Woes Resurface, Sidelining Him in Chargers Loss to Steelers
However, midway through the second quarter, disaster struck. Herbert was sacked by Steelers linebacker Elandon Roberts, limping off the field and heading to the medical tent for evaluation. The Chargers initially did not rule Herbert out, but backup Taylor Heinecke took over under center and remained for the rest of the game.
Before Herbert's departure, the Chargers offense had struggled to generate momentum. He had completed 12 of 18 passes for 125 yards and a touchdown to Quentin Johnston. However, after Herbert left, the Steelers seized control of the game.
Justin Herbert's Injury Woes Resurface, Sidelining Him in Chargers Loss to Steelers
Pittsburgh quarterback Justin Fields, making his third start of the season, orchestrated a 12-play, 73-yard drive that culminated in a Chris Boswell field goal, giving the Steelers a 13-10 lead. Later in the quarter, Fields found Calvin Austin for a 55-yard touchdown, extending the lead to 20-10.
The Chargers were unable to mount a comeback with Heinecke at the helm. Fields and the Steelers offense continued to dominate time of possession, running down the clock and forcing the Chargers to punt. Pittsburgh clinched the victory when Fields took a knee to end the game.
Justin Herbert's Injury Woes Resurface, Sidelining Him in Chargers Loss to Steelers
Fields finished the game with 245 passing yards, a touchdown, and an interception, while Najee Harris led the rushing attack with 70 yards on 18 carries. The Chargers, who had averaged over 200 rushing yards in their first two games, were held to just 61 yards on the ground, with J.K. Dobbins held to 44 yards on 15 carries.
Adding to the Chargers' injury concerns, tackles Rashawn Slater and rookie Joe Alt also suffered injuries during the game.
The loss drops the Chargers to 2-1, while the Steelers remain undefeated at 3-0. Herbert's injury status will be closely monitored in the coming days to determine his availability for the Chargers' next game, a Week 4 matchup against theJacksonville Jaguars.
