Justin Herbert is under pressure as the Los Angeles Chargers face health and injury concerns ahead of their Week 3 matchup with the Broncos. Head coach Jim Harbaugh just labeled one key linebacker “questionable,” adding to the tension.

When asked if LB Daiyan Henley’s recovered from the illness, he said, “Still working through some of it and trying to get him ready. He didn’t practice today, so we’re getting him ready for Sunday.” However, he concluded his final thoughts about the player’s status with one word, “Questionable.”

Henley was already dealing with flu-like symptoms during Week 2 against the Raiders, yet he still delivered with 10 tackles, a sack, and an interception. The illness has carried over into Week 3, putting his status in doubt against the Broncos.

Now, without the linebacker making run stops and underneath coverage, the rivals may force the 27-year-old Chargers’ quarterback to scramble and make quicker throws. That puts Herbert under pressure.

As if missing key defenders wasn’t enough, critics are now speaking up too. Recently, Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin said Justin is not a top-five QB, ranking him closer to the top 10.

Herbert’s protection issues are nothing new.

Last year, Herbert was sacked 41 times, 7th most in the league. In the offseason, the Chargers drafted running back Omarion Hampton in the first round to boost their ground game and protect their quarterback.

The 22-year-old impressed fans with his strength and explosiveness during workouts, including sled pushes that showed his physical dominance. But through two games this season, Herbert has already been sacked five times.

The Bolts need to keep their signal caller stress-free as they move further into the season. Right now, Justin Herbert is in a great place, ranking among the top 5 in most metrics. With 560 passing yards (5th), 127.8 QB rating (3rd), 5 TDs (4th), and 9.2 yards per attempt (3rd), he has led the way for their 2-0 season.

After winning their first two games this season, the Chargers are eyeing a third straight victory, but mounting injuries could pose serious challenges.

Linebacker Daiyan Henley is still questionable with illness. Will Dissly (knee), Ladd McConkey (biceps), Justin Eboigbe (foot), and Elijah Molden (hamstring) all missed practice, while Cam Hart (hip) and Tarheeb Still (knee/shoulder) were limited.

While injuries continue to test the Chargers’ depth and defensive planning, maintaining peak physical condition remains a top priority, starting with what goes on their plates.

Food requirements of Justin Herbert and his teammates

Feeding the Chargers is a massive daily operation, with over 300 people, including players, coaches, and staff, receiving meals. Executive chef Joel Ramirez recently said, “We make sure that they receive the best quality ingredients, from fresh produce to the best protein. It’s about 600 pounds of protein daily.”

Justin Herbert and teammates consume forty whole chickens daily, spread across breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Menus are tailored weekly to match practice and game schedules.

Nutrition varies by position.

Offensive linemen require up to 5,000 calories, while wide receivers need slightly less. Ten players can clear a buffet in minutes, underscoring the scale of demand.

Director of performance nutrition Grant Harris ensures meals are fresh and locally sourced when possible. The kitchen team prepares food daily with a small surplus, balancing quality and quantity. Every meal includes protein, fresh produce, and complex carbs, with snacks like energy bars, fruit, and nuts for quick fuel.

Feeding so many athletes is a major logistical challenge, but the Chargers’ kitchen runs like a well-oiled machine to meet the intense nutritional needs of an NFL roster.