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Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) watches from the sideline in the second half after reinjuring his ankle against the Steelers. (Gene J. Puskar / Associated Press)
The Chargers could soon need a bigger injury tent.
After four starters, including star quarterback Justin Herbert, missed the end of the Chargers’ 20-10 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, coach Jim Harbaugh deflected all questions about the mounting injuries Monday, deferring until the team is required to release an injury report after practice Wednesday.
That list will be long and star-studded.
In addition to Herbert’s right ankle sprain that left him in a walking boot, the Chargers (2-1) enter an AFC West matchup with the Kansas City Chiefs with concerns about both starting offensive tackles Rashawn Slater (pectoral) and Joe Alt (knee) and outside linebacker Joey Bosa (hip).
Alt’s injury could be the most significant, as media reports indicated the rookie right tackle suffered a sprained medial collateral ligament on the Chargers’ final offensive play Sunday. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported Alt likely will miss time, but won’t require surgery.
Read more: Chargers vs. Steelers takeaways: Slew of injuries forces Jim Harbaugh into backup mode
Alt, the No. 5 pick in last spring’s draft, was off to a strong start to his pro career, including a rare perfect performance against the Las Vegas Raiders’ Maxx Crosby in pass protection in the season opener.
“Joe’s been incredible,” Harbaugh said Sunday in Pittsburgh. “It’s like he’s been playing five, six years. … He’s gone right out of the shoot against some of the best in the game.”
By the time Alt limped off the field Sunday, the Chargers already were scrambling on the offensive line after Slater missed almost the entire second half.
The Chargers tried to handle the All-Pro left tackle’s injury by shifting right guard Trey Pipkins III from right guard to left tackle while subbing in backup Jamaree Salyer at guard early in the third…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/chargers-could-minus-justin-herbert-223740692.html
Author : LA Times
Publish date : 2024-09-23 22:37:40
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