When the Los Angeles Chargers face off against the reigning Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs later today, they will do so with starting quarterback Justin Herbert on the field. Herbert has been dealing with a nagging ankle injury but progressed well enough throughout the week and will now be active for the game.
Chargers insider Daniel Popper reported the news on social media.
With Herbert playing in this game, the Chargers feel like they could have a shot against Kansas City. They are banged up in other areas across the roster but they will at least have their leader out on the field.
The Bolts will be missing some key offensive linemen as rookie sensation Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater will be out. The Chargers will need to figure out how to best protect Herbert in this game without the two main pieces of the offensive front.
The team has been very reliant on the running game to start the season, with running back J.K. Dobbins leading the charge. The passing game has been a little shaky to start, which is normal for a Jim Harbaugh-led team.
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However, in this game against Kansas City, Herbert may be relied upon a little more. The Chiefs offense is one of the best in the NFL so the Bolts may need to try to match scores throughout the game.
Los Angeles will also be missing some key pieces on the defensive side of the ball. Star edge rusher Joey Bosa is out for this same as is safety Derwin James Jr., who received a suspension for an incident last week against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
But despite all the injuries, the Chargers aren’t losing hope. Offensive lineman Jamaree Slayer provided the mindset of the team entering this crucial AFC West matchup.
“This is the National Football League,” Jamaree Slayer said via the team transcript. “Whether we have guys out there who are our typical starters are not, everybody on this team is a professional and are that caliber of player.
“It’s the next guy up,” Salyer added. “Our plan is to get to 3-1 no matter who’s on the field and who we’re going against. We’re trying to get to 3-1.”
Los Angeles will be trying to hand Kansas City their first loss of the season in this matchup. It won’t be easy but with Herbert in the mix, the Chargers can at least feel good knowing that they have a chance.
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