Chargers' Quarterback Justin Herbert Placed on Injured Reserve
The Los Angeles Chargers have been dealt a significant blow as starting quarterback Justin Herbert has been placed on injured reserve due to a broken index finger. The injury, which occurred during a collision with Denver Broncos' Zach Allen, will sideline Herbert for the remainder of the 2023 season.
Despite the setback, there is a silver lining: Herbert's surgery was deemed successful, and his recovery is underway. However, this development casts a shadow over the Chargers' already challenging season, where they currently hold a 5-8 record.
Herbert's Durability and Performance
Known for his resilience, Herbert had previously played through various injuries, including a broken finger on his non-throwing hand and fractured rib cartilage. His toughness is well-documented, having started 62 consecutive regular-season games before this unfortunate incident.
Before exiting the game against the Broncos, Herbert had completed nine out of 17 passes for 96 yards, with one interception. This performance was cut short when Allen's hit resulted in the injury that has abruptly ended Herbert's season.
Quarterback Adjustments
In Herbert's absence, backup quarterback Easton Stick stepped in and will take the helm as the starter for the upcoming game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Max Duggan is set to serve as Stick's backup following Herbert's departure to injured reserve.
Stick, who was drafted by the Chargers five years ago, expressed both concern for his teammate and readiness to seize the opportunity. "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."
Coaching Staff and Team Morale
Head Coach Brandon Staley made it clear that the team prioritizes Herbert's 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 stated on Monday. He further emphasized Herbert's youth and potential, 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 with that in mind."
The Chargers brought in Kellen Moore as offensive coordinator in the offseason, aiming to revitalize their offense. Despite these efforts, the team ranks 17th in total offense, reflecting the struggles they've faced throughout the season.
Additional Team Setbacks
The Chargers' woes are compounded by the loss of wide receiver Joshua Palmer, who is also out for the season with a knee injury. The impact of these absences will undoubtedly test the depth and resilience of the Chargers' roster as they navigate the remainder of the season.
As the Chargers regroup and reassess their strategy without their star quarterback, fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring Stick's performance and the team's ability to overcome adversity. With Herbert's return slated for next season, the Chargers' focus shifts to development and preparation for the future.
The coming weeks will reveal much about the character and potential of this Chargers squad as they face the challenges ahead without their leading signal-caller. The team's response to this adversity could set the tone for the next campaign, where they hope to have a healthy Justin Herbert back under center.