Injury Sidelines Chargers QB Justin Herbert: A Blow to the Team’s Season The Los Angeles Chargers have been dealt a significant blow as it was announced that star quarterback Justin Herbert will undergo surgery on his broken index finger, ruling him out for the remainder of the season. This unfortunate development occurred during the second quarter of the Chargers’ recent 24-7 loss to the Denver Broncos. Herbert, known for his resilience, visited two hand specialists on Monday to assess the severity of the injury. Head coach Brandon Staley expressed the team’s commitment to Herbert’s long-term well-being, prioritizing his recovery above all else. While Herbert’s absence will undoubtedly be felt on the field, the Chargers understand the importance of ensuring his health and future success. The decision to proceed with surgery is a testament to their dedication to his long-term career. Herbert’s injury adds him to the growing list of starting quarterbacks who have been sidelined for the remainder of the season due to injuries. However, it is worth noting that if Aaron Rodgers of the New York Jets does not return from his torn Achilles tendon, Herbert will become the seventh quarterback on this unfortunate list. This includes notable quarterbacks who recently signed significant contract extensions, such as Herbert himself and Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals. As Herbert’s replacement, Easton Stick will make his first NFL start on Thursday night against the Las Vegas Raiders. With the Chargers currently holding a record of 5-8 and having lost four of their past five games, Stick faces a challenging task. It is worth highlighting that Stick’s start will only be the fourth by a Chargers quarterback since 2006, a statistic that places them in the company of Tampa Bay and Philadelphia for the second-fewest starting quarterbacks in that span. While the loss of Herbert is undoubtedly a setback for the Chargers, the team must rally together and support Stick as he steps into this new role. Their upcoming games will be crucial in determining their season’s outcome, and the Chargers must find a way to regain their winning form. In the midst of this unfortunate turn of events, it is important to reflect on Herbert’s durability throughout his career. With 62 consecutive regular-season starts, he has shown incredible resilience. Despite playing through a broken finger on his non-throwing hand earlier this season and fractured rib cartilage last season, Herbert has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the team. In light of Herbert’s absence, Max Duggan, a seventh-round draft pick from April, will be called up from the practice squad to serve as Stick’s backup. This provides an opportunity for Duggan to showcase his skills and contribute to the team’s success in Herbert’s absence. As fans and supporters of the Los Angeles Chargers, let us rally behind Easton Stick as he takes on the challenge of leading the team in the final stretch of the season. Together, we can support the Chargers and wish Justin Herbert a speedy recovery as he focuses on healing and preparing for a successful return in the future.