Chargers QB Justin Herbert expected to miss two weeks with foot injury

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert has suffered a setback at the start of training camp.

On Thursday, the Chargers announced that the 26-year-old was diagnosed with an injured plantar fascia in his right foot following Wednesday's practice. He's scheduled to spend approximately two weeks in a walking boot before "a gradual return to play protocol."

The team expects Herbert to be ready for the start of the regular season when the Chargers host the Las Vegas Raiders on Sept. 8.

Regardless, Herbert suffering an injury at the start of training camp is costly for Los Angeles, which is attempting to bounce back after going 5-12 in 2023.

This offseason, the Chargers hired new head coach Jim Harbaugh. Herbert needs reps to learn Harbaugh's offensive system and develop a repertoire with rookie wide receiver Ladd McConkey.

L.A. backup QB Easton Stick will likely start in the team's first preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks on Aug. 10. Stick filled in for Herbert last season when he suffered a season-ending right index finger fracture. He went 0-4 in four starts, completing 63.8% of his passes for 1,129 yards, three TDs, and one interception.

The Chargers also have second-year QB Max Duggan, who didn't play during his rookie season, and undrafted rookie Casey Bauman.

It's good for the Chargers that it doesn't seem like a severe injury. Herbert, the 2020 Offensive Rookie of the Year, has become an outstanding QB through his first four seasons with the club. He has completed 66.6% of his passes for 17,223 yards, 114 TDs, 42 picks and an exceptional 95.7 passer rating.

Herbert must stay healthy for the remainder of 2024, or the Bolts could miss the playoffs for a second consecutive season.