The Los Angeles Chargers were on the wrong end of a 20-10 decision against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday afternoon. That should not be their primary concern right now. Their injury situation is the problem, and it got worse on Sunday.
Quarterback Justin Herbert, edge rusher Joey Bosa and both starting tackles, including standout rookie Joe Alt, all had to leave Sunday’s game and did not return.
Herbert (ankle) and Bosa (hip) entered the game with existing injuries, leaving their respective statuses for the game in doubt. Though both tried to play, neither finished.
Bosa lasted just one defensive snap before exiting.
Herbert played into the second half and was at times effective, but was clearly limited by the high-ankle sprain he suffered a week ago. That injury seemed to get worse early in the third quarter when he was sacked, had trouble moving and exited the game just one play later.
He was replaced by backup Taylor Heinicke.
Heinicke completed his only two pass attempts for 24 yards, but the problem for him and the Chargers became new injuries to offensive tackles Rashawn Slater and Alt that removed them from the game. That allowed the Steelers’ pass-rush to become relentless in the fourth quarter, rendering the Chargers’ passing game completely useless.
The Chargers took a big gamble by allowing Herbert to play and it may have cost them in the long term. As much as they wanted to win three consecutive games to open the season, it is still a 17-game campaign and Herbert’s long-term health has to be their top priority. If he has to miss significant time that is going to hurt them far more than one game early in the season.
With a game against the Kansas City Chiefs looming next week, followed by back-to-back road games, the Chargers injury situation could be a big concern.
