The Los Angeles Chargers’ 2023 season took a somber turn as star quarterback Justin Herbert was set to undergo surgery to mend his fractured right index finger. The team officially placed him on injured reserve, effectively ending his campaign for the year. This unfortunate development follows Herbert’s injury during the recent clash against the Denver Broncos, where a hit from defensive end Zach Allen in the second quarter left him nursing a painful finger.
Despite the injury, Herbert’s resilience was evident as he managed to complete a pass to tight end Donald Parham Jr. on that very play. However, it was clear that all was not well with his right hand. He continued for the rest of the series before heading to the locker room and, ultimately, not returning to the game.
Herbert’s fourth season concludes with some impressive statistics: 3,134 yards passing, 20 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. These numbers speak to his talent and potential in the NFL.
Coach Brandon Staley, addressing the situation on Monday, emphasized the importance of Herbert’s long-term future, especially with a fractured finger on his throwing hand. Given the Chargers’ 5-8 record, a return for the young quarterback with only four games left in the season seemed unlikely. Staley underscored Herbert’s bright future at just 25 years old and stressed that every decision would prioritize his well-being.
Herbert’s absence will break his remarkable streak of 62 consecutive starts, the second-longest active run among quarterbacks, trailing only Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills, who boasts 84 consecutive starts. This streak will officially come to an end when the Chargers face the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday. In Herbert’s place, Easton Stick will take the reins, with rookie Max Duggan as his backup.
Stick, a fifth-round draft pick in 2019, stepped in for Herbert during the Broncos game and managed to guide the Chargers to their only touchdown. This drive featured a remarkable 57-yard pass to Quentin Johnston, culminating in a touchdown by Austin Ekeler. Stick finished the game with a respectable 13-of-24 passing for 179 yards, though he was unable to secure any touchdowns or interceptions.
Speaking to reporters about his impending NFL start, Stick displayed confidence, underlining his winning mentality cultivated during his college years at North Dakota State. With a record of 49 wins and only 3 losses over four seasons, Stick established himself as the all-time leader in various passing categories at NDSU, including passing yards, passing touchdowns, and total offense yards.
Despite the magnitude of the moment, Stick asserted he had no nerves, though he acknowledged the standard pre-game jitters. He expressed excitement for the opportunity to play and prove himself in the NFL.
Stick’s teammates exhibited unwavering faith in his abilities, with safety Derwin James praising his contributions during practice and in the game. They vowed to support Stick as he stepped into this pivotal role, hoping he could ignite an unexpected turnaround for the Chargers, who are not yet mathematically eliminated from playoff contention.
Wide receiver Keenan Allen, while acknowledging the challenge of playing without Herbert, expressed confidence in Stick’s ability to make plays and his profound understanding of the game. The team remains focused on their postseason aspirations, with Stick now tasked with leading the way.
In a corresponding move, the Chargers activated receiver Joshua Palmer from injured reserve on Tuesday, as they prepare for this new chapter in their season.