Chargers Quarterback Justin Herbert Placed on Injured Reserve
The Los Angeles Chargers have officially placed star quarterback Justin Herbert on injured reserve, following a broken index finger he sustained in a recent clash against the Denver Broncos. The injury, which resulted from a hit by Zach Allen, has not only sidelined Herbert but also necessitated surgery. Fortunately for Herbert and the Chargers, the surgery was deemed successful, and the quarterback is now on the mend.
Season-Ending Injury for Herbert
Despite the successful operation, the prognosis for Herbert's return to the field this season is grim. The Chargers announced that Herbert will miss the remainder of the 2023 season, putting an end to his streak of 62 consecutive regular-season starts. This setback comes as a significant blow to the team, considering Herbert's resilience and toughness, previously playing through a broken finger on his non-throwing hand and fractured rib cartilage.
Herbert's Performance Pre-Injury
Before exiting the game due to his injury, Herbert had completed nine out of 17 passes for 96 yards, with one interception. His early departure marked a turning point in the game, forcing backup quarterback Easton Stick into action. Stick, who took over mid-game, is slated to start in the upcoming game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Max Duggan is expected to serve as Stick's backup following Herbert's untimely injury.
Impact on the Chargers' Season
The loss of Herbert is yet another hurdle in what has been a challenging season for the Chargers. Currently holding a 5-8 record, the team's performance has not met expectations, ranking 17th in total offense. The addition of Kellen Moore as offensive coordinator in the offseason aimed to bolster the team's offensive capabilities, but the results have been mixed thus far.
Injuries have indeed plagued the Chargers, with wide receiver Joshua Palmer also out for the season due to a knee injury. Such setbacks have hampered the team's ability to establish consistency and build momentum as they navigate through the latter part of the season.
Leadership Comments on Herbert's Injury
Head Coach Brandon Staley addressed the media regarding Herbert's condition, emphasizing the quarterback's grit while also underscoring the importance of 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. He further highlighted Herbert's potential, remarking, "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."
Stick Steps Up
Easton Stick, who has been with the Chargers for five years, is now stepping into the starting role amid challenging circumstances. His comments reflected a mix of readiness and acknowledgment of the opportunity before him. "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."
As Stick prepares to lead the team against the Raiders, the Chargers are hopeful that his enthusiasm translates into on-field success. With Herbert cheering from the sidelines, Stick's performance could play a crucial role in defining the remainder of the Chargers' season.
Looking Ahead
The Chargers organization and its fan base now face the reality of completing the season without their starting quarterback. While the immediate future may seem daunting, the focus remains on Herbert's recovery and the development of players like Stick, who now have the chance to showcase their abilities under pressure.
With a team facing adversity from all angles, the remaining games will test the Chargers' depth and resolve. As the 2023 season progresses, all eyes will be on how the team adapts to these challenges and what moves they will make to ensure a stronger comeback in the following year.