Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert suffered a fractured left hand in Week 13 but is pushing to play in the team’s upcoming Monday night matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Herbert briefly left Sunday’s game before returning with his third and fourth fingers taped together and a glove on his injured non-throwing hand. The Chargers avoided taking snaps under center for the rest of the game, as Herbert said he struggled to grip the ball.
The quarterback underwent surgery on Monday, during which doctors inserted a plate and screws to stabilize the fracture.
“The plan is to prepare as if I’m going to play and see how the next couple of days goes,” Herbert said. “Do everything I can to be out there for the team and the guys out there.”
Pro Football Doc Dr. David Chao said Herbert may actually be more secure for Monday night than he was before surgery due to the stability provided by the plate and screws. Chao noted the only significant concern would be if the fracture were comminuted and unstable, which could risk displacement and require a second operation, an outcome the Chargers want to avoid.
Chao explained that before surgery, any additional displacement was less consequential because stabilization was already planned. Post-surgery, however, the priority is preventing movement. He added that Herbert likely received a nerve block Sunday to help manage pain and that, based on the mechanics of the repair, he believes Herbert is “very likely to play next week.”
Head coach Jim Harbaugh said the team is optimistic Herbert will be available against the Eagles but acknowledged they are preparing backup quarterback Trey Lance to start if necessary.
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