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. The injury, which will sideline Herbert for the remainder of the 2023 season, occurred during a clash with the Denver Broncos when he was hit by Zach Allen.
Herbert underwent successful surgery and is currently in the recovery process. Despite his resilience and history of playing through pain—including previous instances where he played with a broken finger on his non-throwing hand and fractured rib cartilage—this latest setback marks the end of a notable streak for Herbert, who had started 62 consecutive regular-season games prior to this incident.
A Tough Season for the Chargers
The Chargers' current season has been fraught with challenges, reflected in their 5-8 record. The team's struggle extends beyond the quarterback position, as wide receiver Joshua Palmer is also out for the season due to a knee injury. These setbacks have occurred despite the off-season acquisition of Kellen Moore as offensive coordinator, an effort to bolster the team's offense which currently ranks 17th in the league.
Easton Stick Steps Up as Starting Quarterback
With Herbert sidelined, backup quarterback Easton Stick stepped in during the game against the Broncos and will take over as the starting quarterback for the upcoming game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Max Duggan is set to back up Stick following Herbert's injury.
Stick, reflecting on his unexpected rise to the starting role, expressed a mix of emotions. "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." His sentiment underscores the bittersweet nature of ascending to a starting position due to a teammate's misfortune.
Coach Staley's Perspective on Herbert's Injury
Chargers Head Coach Brandon Staley addressed the media regarding Herbert's condition, emphasizing the quarterback's toughness and the organization's focus on 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," Staley said Monday.
Staley further 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," Staley added, pointing to the careful consideration the team is giving to Herbert's rehabilitation and return to the field.
Looking Ahead for the Chargers
As the Chargers navigate through the remainder of a trying season, the focus shifts to how the team can adapt and evolve in the face of adversity. With Stick at the helm, the Chargers will look to rally and finish the season strong, potentially laying the groundwork for a comeback year once Herbert returns to full health.
The coming weeks will test the depth and resilience of the Chargers' roster, as well as the strategic acumen of Moore and the coaching staff. While the loss of a starting quarterback is always a daunting hurdle, it also presents an opportunity for other players to step up and make their mark.
The Chargers' fanbase, while surely disappointed by the turn of events, can find solace in the team's commitment to protecting its star quarterback's career and the chance to witness the emergence of new talent on the gridiron. As the Chargers prepare to face the Raiders without Herbert, all eyes will be on Stick to see if he can seize his moment and lead the team to victory.