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 during a recent clash with the Denver Broncos. The injury, which occurred after a hit by Zach Allen, has sidelined Herbert for the remainder of the 2023 season.
Despite the unfortunate circumstances, Herbert underwent successful surgery and is currently in recovery. Known for his resilience, Herbert has previously played through a broken finger on his non-throwing hand and fractured rib cartilage. However, this latest injury halts his impressive streak of 62 consecutive regular-season starts.
The Impact of Herbert's Injury on the Chargers
The absence of Herbert is a major setback for the Chargers, who have been struggling to find their rhythm this season. Currently sitting at a 5-8 record, the team's playoff hopes are dimming. Further compounding their challenges, wide receiver Joshua Palmer is also out for the season due to a knee injury.
Before exiting the game against the Broncos, Herbert had completed nine out of 17 passes for 96 yards and threw one interception. Easton Stick, who stepped in for Herbert post-injury, is slated to start in the upcoming game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Max Duggan will serve as Stick's backup, stepping into the second-string role following Herbert's departure.
The Chargers' offense, now under the guidance of Kellen Moore who joined as offensive coordinator in the offseason, ranks 17th in total offense. With the loss of their starting quarterback, the pressure is on Moore to adjust the offense to suit Stick's capabilities and steer the team through the rest of the season.
Team and Player Reactions
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 said in a statement on Monday.
Staley also highlighted Herbert's potential and future prospects: "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 with that in mind."
For Easton Stick, the opportunity to start comes with mixed emotions, given the circumstances surrounding his elevation to the first-team offense. "Obviously, this isn't how I envisioned it," Stick remarked. "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."
Looking Ahead
As the Chargers prepare to face the Raiders without their star quarterback, all eyes will be on Stick to see if he can galvanize the team and inject some much-needed momentum into their season. It's a pivotal moment for Stick, who must now lead a team in need of a turnaround.
The Chargers organization and fans alike are hopeful for Herbert's full recovery and return to the field next season. In the meantime, the team must navigate the remaining games with determination and adaptability, embodying the resilience that Herbert has displayed throughout his career.
With the Chargers facing such adversity, the remainder of the 2023 season will test the depth and character of the squad. As they rally around Stick and push forward, it remains to be seen how this chapter in Chargers history will unfold.