The Chargers appear to have avoided the worst-case scenario with quarterback Justin Herbert, and optimism is growing that he may suit up in Week 14.Â
NFL Networkâs Ian Rapoport reported that Herbert believes he will play Monday night against the Philadelphia Eagles, despite suffering a fracture in his left, non-throwing hand.Â
Herbert echoed that confidence postgame, telling reporters, âIâm treating it as if Iâm playing on Monday.âÂ
He added that the procedure scheduled for December 1 is meant to âstabilizeâ the injury rather than sideline him. Â
Head coach Jim Harbaugh reinforced that the team isnât ruling him out, noting they will âsee how the week goesâ before making a final decision.Â
With the Chargers in the thick of the playoff race, Herbertâs determination and the medical staffâs confidence are great news.
Herbertâs Injury Situation and His Push to Play
Herbert suffered the injury on the opening drive of the Chargersâ win over the Las Vegas Raiders, fracturing a bone in the back of his left hand.
He briefly exited the game, returning in the second quarter wearing a padded glove and ultimately finishing the game.Â
Despite the pain and the looming surgery, Herbert has remained adamant that he can manage the injury without missing time.
The star quarterback emphasized that the operation is a stabilizing procedure.Â
He and the Chargersâ medical staff are hopeful he will be cleared for Week 14.
With the fracture located on his non-throwing hand, the team believes Herbert will be able to grip, throw, and function at a high level.
What Herbertâs Availability Means for the Chargersâ Outlook
The Chargers enter Week 14 needing every win they can get, and Herbertâs potential availability changes the tone of their matchup with the Eagles.Â
Without him, the offense would rely on a more conservative approach under backup quarterback Trey Lance, significantly altering their identity.Â
With him, the Chargers maintain their aggressive downfield passing ability and their full playbook is available to them.
If Herbert is active, Los Angeles can continue building momentum after their win over the Raiders.Â
They can continue to have an improved balance between the run game and their downfield passing.Â
As the Chargers gear up for a tough Philadelphia defense, all eyes remain on Herbertâs recovery.Â
Inside the building, the tone is very hopeful.
If heâs able to suit up, the Chargers walk into Monday night with a different level of belief against the reigning Super Bowl champions.Â
The Chargers are currently two games behind the Broncos in the AFC West, but currently sit as the No. 5 seed in the AFC.
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