Taylor Heinicke Injury History & Analysis

Chargers HC Jim Harbaugh said Wednesday that an MRI on QB Justin Herbert's ankle revealed that the injury is "progressing." Herbert is out of his walking boot. It's still unclear whether he'll start this weekend's game against the Chiefs. Two things that might factor into that decision:

1. The Chargers are expected to be without OTs Joe Alt (knee) and Rashawn Slater (pectoral).
2. The team has an upcoming Week 5 bye.

QB Taylor Heinicke would presumably get the start if Herbert misses the Chiefs game. We'll keep you updated on the situation.

X-rays on Chargers QB Justin Herbert's ankle came back clean, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. "He'll continue to be monitored this week," Rapoport adds.

Chargers QB Justin Herbert aggravated his ankle injury in the third quarter of Sunday's game vs. the Steelers. He's officially questionable to return, but The Athletic's Daniel Popper tweets that Herbett "has a hat on, limping badly on sideline. Would be shocked if he returns to this game." QB Taylor Heinicke has replaced Herbert.

There's "optimism" Chargers QB Justin Herbert (ankle) will be able to play vs. the Steelers today, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Herbert only got in a limited practice on Thursday this week as he battles what he said is a high-ankle sprain. ESPN's Adam Schefter hears that Herbert is "preparing to play" today but that a final decision won't come until pregame warmups. Schefter adds that the Chargers will likely have Herbert and QBs Easton Stick and Taylor Heinicke active. We'll get Los Angeles' inactives around 11:30 am ET, but Herbert is not a recommended starter in any fantasy leagues this week.

Falcons QB Kirk Cousins (Achilles) has been medically cleared for training camp and will take all first-team reps while QBs Michael Penix Jr. and Taylor Heinicke split second-team reps.