Chargers HC Jim Harbaugh drops major injury update on Justin Herbert ahead of Bucs game

After losing 19-17 to the AFC-leading Kansas City Chiefs, the LA Chargers are gearing up for their remaining games with a playoff spot in sight. Starting quarterback Justin Herbert is back with the team after an injury scare in the Week 14 game at Arrowhead Stadium, as announced by head coach Jim Harbaugh at a press conference on Friday.

Discussing his quarterback's health, Harbaugh praised his player, noting that his strength was exceptional.

“He's got the strength of 10 men,” the coach said.

Harbaugh’s statement referred to Herbert’s quick recovery from what appeared to be a serious injury scare. The quarterback missed some practice sessions this week and had a heavily taped ankle.

Justin Herbert survives two injury scare against Kansas City Chiefs

Herbert suffered two injury scares earlier this week during the opening drive against the Chiefs. The first occurred when Chiefs defensive end Mike Danna landed on Herbert’s ankle after the quarterback scrambled on the third drive. Herbert was immediately rushed to the sidelines but returned to the game shortly after.

The second incident took place in the second quarter, during the Chargers' third down. Herbert threw a long pass to wide receiver Quentin Johnston when he was suddenly tackled midair by Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton.

Bolton’s elbow struck Herbert’s left lower thigh as he fell to the ground in pain. Immediate medical attention was required, and Herbert lay on the field for a while before limping off to the sideline.

Backup quarterback Taylor Heinecke briefly replaced Herbert, who returned to play the rest of the game without restrictions.

Justin Herbert is back to fitness as LA Chargers look towards Play-off qualification

Justin Herbert's season has been marred by injuries. He had to sit out last season due to multiple fractured fingers. He also suffered an ankle sprain during the second game of the season against the Carolina Panthers.

“I would say that this one is probably not as severe," he said. "It's definitely painful enough to be able to miss a practice, but I feel like I've been able to move around a little bit better this week than I did after Carolina, where I was put into a boot and had difficulty walking.”

Now, it appears the quarterback is back to full fitness as the Chargers prepare for games against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-6), Denver Broncos (8-5), New England Patriots (3-10) and Las Vegas Raiders (2-11) as they aim for playoff qualification.