The Chargers’ Justin Herbert will start against the Chiefs in their Week 4 AFC West showdown

Similar to last week, Justin Herbert will try to play through pain this Sunday. The Chargers quarterback, who is dealing with a high ankle sprain, is active and will start Sunday’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Herbert, who had limited practice this week, was listed as questionable. He initially suffered the injury during the Chargers’ Week 2 win over the Panthers.

Herbert was questionable last week but started against the Steelers after testing his ankle before the game. He started the game very well, completing his first ten passes, including a 27-yard touchdown strike to Quentin Johnston. However, he left the game in the third quarter after his injury re-aggravated after being sacked by Steelers linebacker Elandon Roberts. Without Herbert, the Steelers scored 10 unanswered points, handing Los Angeles its first loss.

After the defeat, Herbert wore a hiking boot both that day and Monday. He said he received “good news” regarding both his X-ray and MRI results.

“I think it’s better than last week,” Herbert said earlier this week. “It’s progressing, it was just very painful during the game because of the buildup from the hits and the stress that comes with it. I think we’ve done a good job with the rehab and treatment and I think we’re making progress.”

Herbert and Co. face the two-time defending champion Chiefs, led by two-time league and three-time Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes, who is 5-1 against Herbert. The Chiefs have won their first three games and currently hold a one-game lead over Los Angeles in the AFC West division standings.

“He’s an elite player,” Chargers head coach John Harbaugh recently said of Mahomes. “And the best part. At the top. Super Bowls, winners across the board.”

“It’s amazing what he can do. Nothing but respect.”

Herbert will play, but the Chargers will be without several key players on Sunday, including pass rusher Joey Bosa (hip) and offensive tackles Rashawn Slater (pec) and Joe Alt (knee).