Typically, it’s not ideal for NFL teams to have a bye in Week 5. Often teams prefer to use their byes weeks later in the season to take more advantage of injuries accumulated during the 17-game season.

However, the bye week couldn’t have come at a better time for the Chargers. Justin Herbert had been dealing with nagging injuries all season, and the departure allowed him to heal.

He hasn’t practiced properly in almost a month and has continued to do so this week as he is still limited. However, he told reporters on Wednesday that his ankle was improving.

“We are getting better. As long as we do that, we are in the right position. It actually feels better. I got through the game and the week off definitely helped to further reduce the inflammation.”

The Chargers are 2-2 this season and began their postgame schedule with a matchup against the Broncos in Denver this weekend. The Chargers have suffered two straight losses while the Broncos have rattled off three straight wins.

Herbert’s numbers have taken a serious hit this season. He’s on pace for career lows in almost every way, in part having to do with Jim Harbaugh’s style of play. However, injuries have clearly impacted the star, so his recovery should help improve this passing attack.

Despite his injuries this year, Herbert still started every game. He continues to prove how tough he is, a theme that has become increasingly apparent throughout his career.

There’s no question who will be under center for the Chargers this weekend, and we may see the best we’ve seen from Herbert this season. If we do that, we can all thank the schedulers for saying goodbye to Week 5.