There’s optimism that Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert’s hand injury won’t sideline him.
Herbert underwent surgery to repair a fracture in his left hand on Dec. 1. The Chargers provided an update in the afternoon after Herbert’s procedure.
‘Justin Herbert underwent successful surgery today in Los Angeles to stabilize a fracture in his left hand. Herbert’s return to play is considered day-to-day, and his status for next Monday’s game against Philadelphia will be determined later in the week.’
Herbert injured his left non-throwing hand during the first quarter of the Chargers’ 31-14 win over the Las Vegas Raiders.
The injury occurred during Los Angeles’ opening drive when Herbert scrambled and was brought to the turf by Raiders safety Jeremy Chinn. Herbert and the Chargers went on to score on the 14-play, 74-yard touchdown drive to start the game. However, Herbert exited to locker room after the Chargers’ opening series.
Herbert returned in the second quarter with a white glove and tape on his left hand and finished the game. He passed for 151 yards, two touchdowns and one interception in the win. The Chargers quarterback said postgame he was confident the injury wouldn’t cost him any games.
‘I’m treating it as if I’m playing on Monday,’ Herbert said on Sunday. ‘I think they’re very hopeful for that. I think that’s just something that we’ll see tomorrow and we’ll get a feel for. But I think they were really hopeful. So that’s always a good thing.’
Monday’s update from Harbaugh is another positive sign that Herbert’s hand injury won’t keep him out of action. The Chargers have a difficult five-game stretch to close the regular season as they attempt to clinch a playoff spot. They are currently fifth in the AFC playoff race.
Herbert and the Chargers host the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 14 on Monday night. Herbert’s 2,842 passing yards and 21 touchdown passes this season both rank in the top 10.
Follow USA TODAY Sports’ Tyler Dragon on X @TheTylerDragon.
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