Justin Herbert 'ready for Week 1' after preseason tune-up TD

Justin Herbert is on track to be under center when the Chargers open the regular season. Adam Schefter reported Thursday night that the Los Angeles franchise quarterback is "ready for Week 1," a status check confirming Herbert will be healthy for the opener after a preseason spent largely on the sideline.

Herbert offered a live preview in the Chargers' preseason finale, connecting with Quentin Johnston on a 65-yard touchdown strike that showcased the arm talent the franchise has built around since drafting him sixth overall in 2020.

Coach Jim Harbaugh has leaned on his starters for a brief tune-up in the final exhibition, with Herbert and most of the first-team offense expected to see roughly 6-9 snaps against the Rams — enough to knock off rust without exposing the opener's game plan. For a Chargers team carrying playoff expectations, a healthy Herbert is the prerequisite to all of it.