Chargers rule Justin Herbert questionable for Week 3 vs. Jaguars

The Los Angeles Chargers’ Pro Bowl quarterback Justin Herbert is questionable for Week 3 due to a rib injury.

Herbert, 24, suffered a rib cartilage fracture during a Week 2 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. While he reportedly looked like himself during a throwing session Tuesday, and participated in practice on a limited basis Wednesday and Thursday, he didn’t throw Friday and backup Chase Daniel was seen taking first-team reps in practice.

#Chargers QB Chase Daniel is running the drills so far. QB Justin Herbert is looking on. pic.twitter.com/sFooeukKxU

— Fernando Ramirez (@RealFRamirez) September 23, 2022

Earlier in the day, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport said there was more concern about Herbert’s functionality as a passer rather than his ability to tolerate the pain from the injury. After his Friday practice, Herbert told reporters that his ribs feel good but a decision will be made Sunday whether he can play.

While Los Angeles called Herbert “day-to-day” all week, Jaguars defensive coordinator Mike Caldwell told reporters Thursday that the team was expecting to see the third-year quarterback return in time to play in Week 3.

If Herbert is out of action, the Jaguars defense will face Daniel, who hasn’t started an NFL game since the 2019 season during his time with the Chicago Bears. Over the course of his 13-year career, Daniel has made just five starts with eight touchdown passes and seven interceptions.

The Chargers also ruled wide receiver Keenan Allen as questionable due to a hamstring injury and cornerback J.C. Jackson as doubtful with an ankle injury.

#JAXvsLAC game status

QUESTIONABLE – Keenan Allen, Justin Herbert, Donald Parham, Trey Pipkins

DOUBTFUL – JC Jackson, Corey Linsley

— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) September 23, 2022

In two games this season, Herbert has six touchdown passes with one interception. Two years ago, he threw for 347 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions in a 39-29 win against the Jaguars.

The only player on the Jaguars’ injury report is cornerback Shaquill Griffin, who is questionable with a hip injury.