Chargers Quarterback Justin Herbert Placed on Injured Reserve
In a significant blow to the Los Angeles Chargers, quarterback Justin Herbert has been placed on injured reserve following a broken index finger sustained in a recent game. The injury occurred during a collision with Zach Allen of the Denver Broncos, which forced Herbert out of the matchup and ultimately sidelined him for the rest of the 2023 season.
The Chargers confirmed that Herbert underwent successful surgery and is currently in the recovery phase. However, the timing of this injury could not be worse for the team, as they struggle through a challenging season with a record of 5-8.
Herbert's Injury History and Consecutive Starts
This injury ends an impressive streak for Herbert, who had started 62 consecutive regular-season games since joining the NFL. Known for his resilience, Herbert has previously played through a broken finger on his non-throwing hand and fractured rib cartilage. His toughness is well-documented, but the Chargers have made it clear that they prioritize his long-term health.
"He is tough as they come, but we're going to make sure that, whatever it is, we're going to do what is best for Justin, long term," Coach Staley stated in a press conference on Monday. He emphasized the franchise quarterback's value to the organization, adding, "He's 25 years old, and he's got a really, really bright future ahead of him. So, like I said, every decision we make will be in that mind."
Easton Stick Steps Up as Starting Quarterback
With Herbert out, backup quarterback Easton Stick stepped into the fray during the game against the Broncos and will continue as the starting quarterback for the upcoming game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Stick, who was drafted by the Chargers five years ago, expressed a mix of concern for his teammate and readiness for the opportunity ahead. "Obviously, this isn't how I envisioned it," said Stick. "When they selected me five years ago, this is what you want as a kid — an opportunity to go play. I'm excited for that."
Max Duggan will serve as Stick's backup following Herbert's move to injured reserve. The Chargers' offense, which ranks 17th in the league, will look to Stick to provide a much-needed spark as they attempt to navigate through the remainder of the season without their star quarterback.
Impact on the Chargers' Offense
Before his exit from the game, Herbert had completed nine of 17 passes for 96 yards, with one interception. These numbers are a far cry from the high-flying performances fans have come to expect from the young quarterback. The Chargers' offense, already facing challenges this season, now must regroup under the guidance of Kellen Moore, who joined as offensive coordinator in the offseason.
The loss of Herbert is compounded by the absence of wide receiver Joshua Palmer, who is also out for the season with a knee injury. The Chargers' offense will need to find new ways to generate production without two of its key players as they head into the final stretch of the season.
Looking Ahead for the Chargers
The Chargers' path forward will require a collective effort from the entire roster. As they prepare to face the Raiders without their leading passer, all eyes will be on Stick to see if he can rise to the occasion. The team's adaptability and depth will be tested, but the focus remains on ensuring Herbert's health for the future.
As the Chargers pivot to address these recent setbacks, the organization and its fans hope for a strong finish to the season and a full recovery for Herbert, whose presence under center has become a cornerstone of the team's identity. With the playoffs looking increasingly out of reach, the Chargers' resolve will surely be put to the test in the coming weeks.