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 after sustaining a broken index finger. The injury, which occurred during a collision with Denver Broncos' Zach Allen, has sidelined Herbert for the rest of the 2023 season. Despite a successful surgery and an ongoing recovery, the team will be without their star quarterback as they struggle to improve upon a disappointing 5-8 record.
Herbert's Durability and Consecutive Starts
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, but this latest setback halts an impressive streak of 62 consecutive regular-season starts. Head Coach Brandon Staley emphasized the importance of Herbert's long-term health in the decision-making process surrounding his injury management. "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 remarked in a statement on Monday.
Easton Stick Steps Up as Starter
With Herbert out, backup quarterback Easton Stick steps into the limelight. Stick, who entered the game against the Broncos following Herbert's exit, will start the upcoming game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Reflecting on his new role, Stick said, "Obviously, this isn't how I envisioned it. 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 set to serve as Stick's backup in the wake of Herbert's injury.
Offensive Struggles and Team Adjustments
The Chargers' offense has faced challenges throughout the season, ranking 17th in total offense. The addition of Kellen Moore as offensive coordinator in the offseason has yet to yield the desired turnaround. Before his injury, Herbert completed nine out of 17 passes for 96 yards and threw one interception in the game against the Broncos. The team's performance will now hinge on Stick's ability to adapt and lead an offense that is already dealing with significant setbacks, including the loss of wide receiver Joshua Palmer, who is also out for the season with a knee injury.
Looking Forward
The Chargers' playoff hopes hang in the balance as they navigate the remainder of the season without their starting quarterback. The team's depth and resilience are being tested as they look to close out the year on a positive note. Coach Staley's focus on the future suggests a cautious approach to player health and development, with an eye toward rebuilding and coming back stronger in the next season. At just 25 years old, Herbert's career is still ahead of him, and the Chargers will undoubtedly be eager to have their leader back at the helm once he is fully recovered.
As the Chargers turn the page to face the Raiders, all eyes will be on Stick to see if he can galvanize the team and inject some much-needed optimism into a challenging season. The coming weeks will reveal much about the team's character and perhaps even more about Stick's potential as a starting quarterback in the NFL.