The Los Angeles Chargers struggled to protect quarterback Justin Herbert amid a heavily injured offensive line. But after acquiring tackle Trevor Penning at the trade deadline, the QB might finally see a promising development.

This is just Penning’s second week with the team, and he has already impressed the Chargers’ offensive coordinator, Greg Roman.

“Smart guy. We’ve thrown a lot of information at him,” Roman said as Alex Insdorf reported on X.

“He’s been really diligent trying to learn a new language essentially and play with his new mates…Really impressed so far with what we’ve seen from him.”

This is a much-needed relief for the Chargers and their quarterback, who was sacked five times and hit nine times in the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Herbert even had an ankle injury scare. Fortunately, it wasn’t serious.

This season alone, he has already been sacked 33 times. The Chargers must protect their QB better if they’re eyeing a playoff run. However, that has been difficult with several key players sidelined. Left tackle Joe Alt (ankle) and left tackle Rashawn Slater (knee) are both out for the season.

The difficult aspect is that their right guard, Mekhi Becton (knee), and right tackle, Bobby Hart ( groin and ankle), are also dealing with injuries. That’s why it’s crucial for Penning to step up.

The Northern Iowa product is now in the final year of his rookie deal. He has shifted positions multiple times during his career. After starting all 17 games at right tackle in 2024, he was moved to left guard this season after the team added tackles Taliese Fuaga and Kelvin Banks Jr.

He started six games at his new position after returning from a toe injury.

Now, with multiple injuries on the roster, the Chargers saw Trey Pipkins III play at right tackle and Jamaree Salyer at left. Penning could provide the boost their offensive line needs, though it remains to be seen how the team plans to use him.

He wasn’t the only addition at the trade deadline. The Chargers also acquired defensive back Ja’Sir Taylor. The head coach, Jim Harbaugh, also had more than a few positive updates this week.

Oronde Gadsden II avoided a major injury scare

Herbert wasn’t the only one who had an injury scare in the game against the Steelers. Tight end Oronde Gadsden II had the crowd holding its breath after he grabbed his right leg in pain following an awkward landing. Although he was cleared and wanted to return, the Chargers chose to keep him sidelined.

“He wanted to go back in on Sunday,” Harbaugh shared. “He’s a competitor. The trainers made the smart call, and he checked out fine this week.”

The postgame testing brought relief. What was initially feared to be a knee sprain turned out to be a quad injury. He’s healthy and even returned to practice on Wednesday (November 12).

“Oronde’s good. He’ll practice today,” Harbaugh informed earlier.

He is expected to play against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 11. Having Gadsden, who is one of the team’s top pass catchers, back will be crucial as the Chargers push for a fourth straight win.