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 due to a broken index finger. The injury, sustained during a collision with Zach Allen of the Denver Broncos, has prematurely ended what was another promising season for the young quarterback.
Despite the setback, Herbert's surgery was deemed successful, and he is now in the recovery phase. However, the timeline for healing and rehabilitation means that Herbert will not return to the gridiron for the remainder of the 2023 season, leaving the Chargers without their starting quarterback as they struggle through a challenging year.
A Streak Comes to an End
Before the unfortunate incident, Herbert had been a model of durability and consistency, starting 62 consecutive regular-season games for his team. His resilience was previously displayed when he played through a broken finger on his non-throwing hand and endured fractured rib cartilage. These instances showcased Herbert's grit, but the current injury was severe enough to sideline the stalwart signal-caller.
In the game against the Broncos, Herbert's statistics were notably impacted by the injury. He completed only nine of 17 passes for 96 yards and threw one interception before being replaced by backup quarterback Easton Stick.
The Next Man Up
Easton Stick, who stepped in for Herbert following the injury, is slated to start in the upcoming game against the Las Vegas Raiders. This opportunity marks a pivotal moment for Stick, who was drafted by the Chargers five years ago. "Obviously, this isn't how I envisioned it," Stick said. "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 is expected to serve as Stick's backup in the wake of Herbert's absence. The Chargers' offense, which currently ranks 17th in total offense, will look to these quarterbacks to provide stability and leadership as they navigate through the rest of the season.
Chargers' Season Woes
The Chargers have found themselves in a difficult position this season, holding a 5-8 record. The loss of Herbert only compounds the issues faced by the team, which also includes the season-ending knee injury of wide receiver Joshua Palmer. With two key offensive players out, the pressure mounts on the newly appointed offensive coordinator, Kellen Moore, to adjust the game plan effectively and find ways to ignite the team's offense.
Head coach Brandon Staley expressed his commitment to Herbert's well-being, emphasizing the importance of the quarterback's long-term health over immediate gains. "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," Staley stated. "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," he added, reflecting the organization's forward-looking approach to managing player injuries.
Looking Ahead
As the Chargers continue to contend with a tumultuous season, all eyes will be on Stick to see if he can seize the moment and lead the team to a stronger finish. The adversity faced by the Chargers will test the depth of their roster, the strategic acumen of their coaching staff, and the resolve of a team aiming to overcome the odds.
With Herbert's return next season, the Chargers are hopeful for a resurgence. Until then, they must navigate the present challenges with determination and an unwavering focus on the future. The coming weeks will indeed be telling for a team at a crossroads, looking to find its way back to winning form.