Chargers QB Herbert ‘feeling more comfortable’

COSTA MESA, Calif. — Six days removed from suffering a fracture to his rib cartilage, Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert is considered day-to-day ahead of a Week 3 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars, coach Brandon Staley said Wednesday.

“He has had a lot of rest since his last game,” Staley stated. He’s more at ease. He was able to do light throwing yesterday, some rotational work. But we’ll just take it day-by-day and see where he is at that point. “

Herbert didn’t throw any passes during Wednesday’s brief practice that was open to reporters. The third-year quarterback watched as backup quarterbacks Chase Daniel and Easton Stick took throwing reps.

Herbert did partake in handing balls off to running backs and was listed as a limited participant on the Chargers’ injury report.

Receiver Keenan Allen and tight end Donald Parham Jr., both of whom have been dealing with hamstring injuries, also returned to practice in a limited capacity.

Staley stated that Herbert’s status on Sunday will be decided by the quarterback. “It will begin with him and then obviously he feeling good about what his medical team feels is best, then he weighing the options, and then we making a good choice,” Staley stated.

The Chargers doctor who is caring for Herbert’s injury is being sued for medical malpractice by former Chargers quarterback Tyrod Taylor, who is seeking at least $5 million after suffering a punctured lung while being treated for a rib injury in 2020, according to copies of the original lawsuit and subsequent filings related to the case obtained by ESPN. When asked Wednesday if there was concern about Herbert’s treatment, Staley stated that it is important to take care of the players.

“Any coach who has to deal with a player going through such a difficult time is responsible for taking care of them. “So I think that Justin, his family, and his agents are in complete alignment. We’re going to try our best to have that alignment and trust the process to get him well soon. “

Herbert suffered the injury in last Thursday’s 27-24 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.

With 5 minutes, 9 seconds remaining in the game, Chiefs defensive end Mike Danna hit Herbert, leaving the quarterback lying on the field for an extended period.

Herbert returned after missing only one play and was immediately hit again, as he was crushed between Chiefs pass-rushers Frank Clark and George Karlaftis. Herbert, however, was able to continue the game.

In two games, Herbert has passed for 613 yards and six touchdowns, with an interception.