Justin Herbert Undergoes Surgery for Hand Fracture
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert underwent surgery on a fractured left hand on Monday in Los Angeles, the team announced. Herbert’s situation is evaluated daily, according to the Chargers, who indicated that his participation in the Week 14 game against the Philadelphia Eagles will be determined at the end of this week. Herbert suffered the injury in Sunday’s victory against the Las Vegas Raiders. After the game, the player stated that he was preparing as if he were going to play against Philadelphia. The injury occurred in the first quarter when Raiders safety Jeremy Chinn hit Herbert on a running play. Chinn’s helmet appeared to hit Herbert’s left hand directly. Despite the injury, Herbert continued to play, clearly showing difficulty with his hand, and threw a touchdown to wide receiver Quentin Johnston on the next play. Afterwards, he went to the locker room with the athletic trainers and missed nine plays while they applied a cast and a glove to his left hand. Herbert commented that the hardest part of continuing to play was holding the ball; because of this, the Chargers played the rest of the game from shotgun and pistol formations. Coach Jim Harbaugh indicated that the Chargers will prepare backup quarterback Trey Lance this week for scoring scenarios under center, when necessary. Normally, Herbert takes all the first-team reps, but Harbaugh stated that Lance will have time with the starters in those specific packages. That will be a point of emphasis this week. Harbaugh also marveled at Herbert’s ability to play despite the injury.Two seasons ago, Herbert fractured the middle finger of his left hand in a game against the Raiders. The Chargers primarily played from the shotgun formation to manage that injury.There are never any grimaces or hesitations. It’s amazing.
Jim Harbaugh
Herbert’s injury occurs at a crucial moment in the season, as the Chargers seek to reach the postseason for the second consecutive year. Four of their last five opponents were in the playoffs last season, and each of them (Philadelphia, Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans, Kansas City Chiefs, and Denver Broncos) are competing for playoff spots and a better position.I think in terms of experience, I’ve been through similar situations, so I think it will be helpful. But at the end of the day, you just have to go out there and make sure everything is okay, that you’re comfortable.
Justin Herbert
