Chargers' Harbaugh: I expect Herbert to play vs. Steelers

Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh says that he expects Justin Herbert to play against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 3 after the quarterback suffered an ankle injury.

"Crystal ball? I expect him to (play). He's getting better every day," Harbaugh said, according to NFL.com's Kevin Patra. "Last night, we had a meeting with him and he's feeling much better and good today."

Herbert did not participate in the Chargers' practice Wednesday and was listed with an ankle injury designation.

The 2021 Pro Bowl passer sustained the injury in the third quarter of the Chargers' Week 2 win over the Carolina Panthers. He attempted to escape pressure in the pocket but was grabbed from behind while being also being hit from in front, resulting in his leg being pinned under Panthers linebacker DJ Johnson.

Herbert remained in the game but sported a noticeable limp afterward. He completed 14 of 20 attempts for 130 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.

X-rays came back negative on Herbert's right leg, Harbaugh said on Monday.

If Herbert is unable to play Sunday, Easton Stick will be the team's starter over Taylor Heinicke against the Steelers.

"Right now, it's Easton," Harbaugh said.

Herbert is embracing the balanced attack that the Chargers are implementing under new offensive coordinator Greg Roman. J.K. Dobbins became the first Chargers running back to rush for 100 yards in back-to-back games to open a season, and the club is 2-0 for the first time since 2012.

The Chargers opted to remain on the East Coast following their game against Carolina on Sunday to avoid making two cross-country flights and get a full week of practice in.