Chargers QB Justin Herbert fractures right index finger, Thursday status unclear
Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert fractured his finger, putting his 62 consecutive starts streak in jeopardy, with a short week ahead.
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert suffered a fractured index finger on his right hand during the second quarter of the team's 24-7 loss to the Denver Broncos. This injury puts his streak of 62 consecutive regular-season starts in jeopardy. Coach Brandon Staley stated that the Chargers' medical staff will conduct additional tests to determine whether Herbert will miss their next game on Thursday at Las Vegas. Herbert expressed disappointment over the injury and vowed to do everything he can to return to the field.
The Chargers have struggled in recent weeks and have only three days to prepare for their upcoming game against the Raiders. If Herbert is unable to play, backup Easton Stick is expected to step in as the starting quarterback. This would mark only the fourth time since 2007 that the Chargers have had a different starting quarterback.
Herbert's injury occurred after he was unable to grip the ball following a tackle by Denver's Zach Allen. The Chargers' offense struggled even before the injury, and the team was unable to convert on third and fourth downs. Stick, who replaced Herbert, showed promise in the second half, but the Chargers were unable to secure a win.
Herbert has a history of durability, having played through injuries in the past. He signed a $252.5 million, five-year extension during the offseason. Stick, who has been with the Chargers for five years, expressed his readiness to compete and perform to the best of his abilities if called upon to start.
As the Chargers face uncertainty over Herbert's availability for their next game, the team is preparing for all possible scenarios. With Stick and rookie Max Duggan as the only available quarterbacks, the Chargers are focused on finding the best solution to navigate this challenging situation.
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