Justin Herbert Fractures Index Finger in Loss to Denver Broncos

The former Oregon quarterback may have seen his season come to an end on Sunday in Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert has suffered a fractured index finger, according to head coach Brandon Staley.

Herbert wasn't able to return to the game on Sunday after getting tackled by Denver Broncos defensive end Zach Allen. He finished the game with 96 passing yards, completing 9 of his 16 passes, and throwing 1 interception. He was sacked four times.

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert is tackled by Denver Broncos linebacker Alex Singleton.  / © Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Oregon Ducks quarterback Justin Herbert throws a pass against the Denver Broncos / © Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert drops back to pass against the Denver Broncos / © Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

The fourth-year passer was replaced by backup Easton Stick and the Chargers went on to lose to the Broncos 24-7 as Los Angeles fell to 5-8 on the year. That ties them with the Las Vegas Raiders for last place in the AFC West. 

When asked by reporters about what's next for Herbert, Staley didn't have further details.

"To be determined," the head coach said. "[He] Wasn't able to come back in the game. We'll know a lot more in the next few days."

Herbert's injury is hardly the only obstacle that he's had to battle this year. While he hasn't been playing amazing football, the Chargers' defense has been mediocre, which has undone a lot of the great things he's done in 2023. 

The Chargers have surrendered 31 sacks this year, which averages out to 2.4 sacks per game, a mark that is tied with the Baltimore Ravens, who have a much more mobile quarterback in Lamar Jackson. 

Given the timing of Herbert's injury, a finger fracture could be enough to shut him down for the rest of the season, especially with the Chargers being on the outside of the playoff picture.

The Chargers play their next game against the Las Vegas Raiders this week on Thursday night football and close out the regular season with games against the Buffalos Bills, Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs.

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