Justin Herbert's latest hand injury raises big questions about Chargers' future originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Los Angeles Chargers are 8-4 following a convincing win over the Las Vegas Raiders and currently sit in the No. 5 spot in the AFC playoffs. But the team didn't leave that game without concerns.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementJustin Herbert underwent surgery on Monday after fracturing his left, non-throwing hand in the win. He is considered day-to-day and is uncertain for next Monday night's game against the Philadelphia Eagles. The Chargers, who have dealt with adversity all year, can only deal with so many injuries.
If Herbert is unable to play, former first-round pick Trey Lance would take his spot.
The Chargers have already lost both of their starting offensive tackles, Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt, for the rest of the season. Najee Harris is out for the season and the team's first-round pick, Omarion Hampton, hasn't played since Week 5 after suffering an ankle injury. Last year's third-round pick, Junior Colson, has missed the entire season and even No. 3 running back Hassan Haskins has been out.
That has led to a makeshift offensive line and Kimani Vidal, who wasn't even on the team's initial 53-man roster, to lead the rushing attack. Through the air, Herbert has helped the team succeed by throwing to the likes of Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, Keenan Allen and a solid rookie tight end in Oronde Gadsden II. But taking Herbert out of the lineup might be too much for this team to overcome.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe injury comes at a terrible time for a team that has looked like a playoff contender all year, but there is a logjam forming in the AFC. The Chargers currently trail the red-hot Denver Broncos by two games in the AFC West, but in the Wild Card race, the Houston Texans are looking to steal a spot and the Kansas City Chiefs can't be counted out.
It seems like it would be difficult for the Chargers to hang onto their spot, particularly if they have to rely on Lance.
READ:Chargers smash Raiders behind another huge performance by Kimani Vidal
The injury is on his non-throwing hand, so Herbert, a tough guy by all accounts, may be able to play through it. But the team will evaluate the risk versus the reward as the week goes on.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementMore Chargers Content
NFL Picks, Predictions Week 13: Los Angeles Chargers vs. Las Vegas Raiders
Why the Los Angeles Chargers are making the correct call with Omarion Hampton in Week 13
Giants' firing of Brian Daboll is painful early reminder for L.A. Chargers fans
Los Angeles Chargers deserve higher mark for buzzer-beating deal to acquire Trevor Penning
Los Angeles Chargers continually predicted to add 24-TD running back at trade deadline
AdvertisementAdvertisement
