Chargers Prepare for Eagles with Justin Herbert’s Status Uncertain

The Los Angeles Chargers are gearing up for their upcoming game against the Philadelphia Eagles with uncertainty surrounding the status of quarterback Justin Herbert. Following surgery to repair a fractured bone in his non-throwing hand, Coach Jim Harbaugh stated that a formal decision regarding Herbert’s availability would be announced later in the week.

Herbert underwent the procedure on March 15, 2024, and while he has not been practicing, Harbaugh indicated that the team is preparing as if Herbert will be able to start. “Not gonna practice, but he hasn’t missed a beat,” Harbaugh explained. “Already back today in meetings and out on the field for walk-through.”

During a press conference, Herbert described his surgery, noting that he had a plate and screws inserted into his left hand. Although he kept the hand concealed in his sweatshirt pocket, he expressed optimism about his recovery. “The doctors were happy with how they performed, so I guess that’s always a good thing,” he said.

The quarterback acknowledged the need to monitor swelling in the coming days. He has a history of durability, having missed only four games due to injury across six seasons with the Chargers. Despite being sidelined for the last four games of the current season due to a broken finger on his right hand, Herbert remains hopeful. “It’s obviously a situation where you’ll see how it goes throughout the week, and you’d love as much time as possible,” he stated.

As preparations continue, backup quarterback Trey Lance has been taking snaps with the starting offense. Harbaugh previously mentioned that Lance, who was selected third overall by the San Francisco 49ers in 2021, would receive additional playing time should the Chargers need to adjust their offensive strategy, especially in critical situations like goal-line plays. “Better to be prepared and not have your opportunity come than have your opportunity come and not be prepared,” Harbaugh added.

Herbert remains determined to take snaps from under center later in the week, indicating he believes he could still start even if he cannot practice fully. “It’s definitely difficult in this league, but if that’s the case and Coach feels like I’ll give the best shot for the team, you know that I trust his decision,” Herbert remarked.

With the game against the Eagles approaching, the Chargers are looking to establish a solid game plan while navigating the uncertainty surrounding their star quarterback. The matchup will take place in Los Angeles, and both teams are keen to secure a victory as they aim to improve their standings in the league.