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, which occurred during a collision with Zach Allen of the Denver Broncos, has sidelined Herbert for the remainder of the 2023 season.
Despite the unfortunate circumstances, Herbert's surgery was deemed successful, and his recovery is underway. Known for his resilience, Herbert had previously played through various ailments, including a broken finger on his non-throwing hand and fractured rib cartilage. However, this latest injury proves too severe to play through, halting his streak of 62 consecutive regular-season starts.
Herbert's Performance and Impact
Prior to exiting the game against the Broncos, Herbert had completed nine of 17 passes for 96 yards, alongside one interception. His absence will undoubtedly be felt by a Chargers team that has struggled this season, currently holding a 5-8 record.
Herbert's toughness and determination have not gone unnoticed, with head coach Brandon Staley expressing his admiration for the quarterback's grit. "He is tough as they come," Staley said. "But we're going to make sure that, whatever it is, we're going to do what is best for Justin, long term." At just 25 years old, the focus remains on Herbert's future prospects and ensuring his health for seasons to come.
Easton Stick Steps Up as Starter
With Herbert out, backup quarterback Easton Stick steps into the starting role, beginning with the upcoming game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Stick, who was drafted five years ago, recognizes the gravity of the opportunity before him. "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."
Supporting Stick from the sidelines will be Max Duggan, who moves into the backup position following Herbert's injury. The Chargers' offense, which ranks 17th in total offense, will look to Stick to reignite their performance in the remaining games of the season.
Coaching and Team Adjustments
The Chargers brought in Kellen Moore as offensive coordinator in the offseason, hoping to bolster their strategic approach. With the offense now under Stick's command, Moore's adaptability and play-calling will be put to the test as the team navigates this transitional period.
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 will need to rely on their depth and the next-man-up mentality to overcome these challenges.
Looking Ahead
As the Chargers prepare for their next matchup without their star quarterback, the team and its fans are hopeful for Herbert's full recovery and return to the field. The young quarterback's career has been marked by impressive durability and performance, making this setback a rare hurdle in his otherwise ascending trajectory.
For now, the Chargers turn their eyes to Stick, whose readiness and enthusiasm could provide a much-needed spark. With the support of his coaches and teammates, Stick has the chance to prove himself in a starting role and help steer the Chargers through the remainder of a trying season.
The coming weeks will reveal much about the Chargers' resilience and depth as they face the challenge of competing without key players like Herbert and Palmer. Fans, while disappointed by the turn of events, remain hopeful that the adversity faced this season will pave the way for a stronger and more determined squad in the years ahead.