Justin Herbert’s Injury Update: No Restrictions Expected in Week 6 Game

Costa Mesa, California – Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert broke his silence with reporters, speaking for the first time since fracturing his left middle finger on his non-throwing hand. Despite the injury, Herbert expressed confidence that he wouldn’t face any restrictions in the upcoming Week 6 game against the Dallas Cowboys. He also revealed that he might not take any snaps from under center until the game begins.

“I think that’s one of those things that you don’t really want to put your hand in danger,” Herbert stated. He further emphasized that the Chargers wouldn’t need to alter their game plan by removing plays that involve him being under center for Monday’s game. Herbert did mention that a few plays designed for Monday’s matchup do include him taking snaps under center, and the final decision on their usage would depend on how his finger responds during the week.

Chargers’ head coach Brandon Staley supported Herbert’s assessment, confirming that the injury would not impact their game plan for Monday. This reassuring statement suggests that the Chargers are prepared to adapt to Herbert’s condition and ensure he can play at his best.

Herbert’s injury occurred during the third quarter of the Chargers’ Week 4 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. The fracture resulted from his finger becoming lodged in a helmet after throwing an interception that was caught by Raiders cornerback Tre’von Moehrig. Herbert briefly left the game but returned with his left hand wrapped and a splint on the injured middle finger. Interestingly, the Chargers only took a single snap from under center for the remainder of the game, and Herbert completed a game-sealing 45-yard pass to receiver Joshua Palmer.

In practice this week, Herbert has been seen wearing a white glove on his left hand, which he intends to continue wearing until the injury heals. Despite this protective measure, he does not anticipate any significant limitations. “I think there’s so much going on during the game that you’re probably not going to be worrying about it too much,” Herbert commented. “I think you’re just going to be worried about not getting tackled or not taking those hits. Whether it’s a scramble, it’s about being safe and getting down. That’s in the back of your mind.”

Fortunately for Herbert and the Chargers, they enjoyed a timely bye week in Week 5, which allowed Herbert to focus on his recovery. He mentioned that he felt like he could have played even without the bye but credited the team’s training staff for their dedicated support in helping him heal. “I think it gets better every day,” Herbert affirmed. “It’s nice having the bye week to get our bodies back. I think it’s getting better every day.”

The circumstances surrounding Herbert’s injury raised concerns as, when he left the game, a trainer covered his left hand with a towel, which can sometimes suggest a more severe injury. However, Herbert clarified that he did not consult a hand specialist or undergo surgery, opting instead to rely on the Chargers’ medical staff, whom he regards as specialists. When questioned about whether his bone punctured the skin, Herbert maintained that such details were private and personal matters during that time.