Posted on Dec 11

Chargers' Herbert plays through left hand fracture, struggles in loss to Eagles

Posted Dec 11, 2025

#chargers #justin-herbert #injury #eagles

Justin Herbert’s fractured left hand raises questions about his availability as the Chargers prepare to face the Kansas City Chiefs.

Why it matters: Herbert's health is crucial for the Chargers as they aim to secure their playoff position. Currently sitting at 9-4, the team needs consistent quarterback performance to maintain momentum in a competitive AFC West.

Herbert sustained the injury during a recent game against the Philadelphia Eagles, where he ran for a team-high 66 yards on 10 carries. Despite the setback, he demonstrated resilience, running for crucial first downs, including a pivotal 12-yard scramble in overtime.

By the numbers: While Herbert's rushing ability was on display, his passing statistics were less impressive.

He finished with a career-low completion percentage of 46.2% and recorded only 139 passing yards, marking the sixth-fewest of his career.
Additionally, he threw one interception and lost a fumble, contributing to a challenging outing for the Chargers’ offense.

What to watch: Herbert's limited participation in practice indicates that the injury may impact his performance against the Chiefs.

The Chargers are facing a critical matchup with Kansas City (6-7), who are always a formidable opponent in the division.
Herbert's health will be closely monitored leading up to the game, as his mobility is essential for a team that relies on both his arm and legs to create opportunities.

Yes, but: Herbert expressed optimism despite his struggles, suggesting a strong commitment to the team's goals.

"In the moment I think that was the best thing that I could have done for the team," he said, reflecting on his performance despite the injury.
"I missed a lot of throws and played uncharacteristically," he acknowledged, indicating a desire to improve and meet the expectations set by the team.

The big picture: As the playoffs approach, the Chargers need to rally around Herbert, regardless of his physical limitations.

If he can play through the pain effectively, his experience and leadership will be invaluable in a high-stakes game against a familiar foe.
Should he struggle, the Chargers may need to adjust their offensive strategy to rely more heavily on their running game and defense.

What's next: The Chargers will continue to assess Herbert's condition throughout the week leading up to the Chiefs game.

Fans and analysts alike will keep a close eye on updates from the training facility to gauge whether Herbert can return to form or if the team will need to pivot in their game plan.

The bottom line: Herbert’s ability to perform under duress will be tested in the coming days, and how the Chargers handle this situation could define their postseason aspirations.

Chargers' Herbert plays through left hand fracture, struggles in loss to Eagles

Alex Parker

Posted Dec 11, 2025

Justin Herbert’s fractured left hand raises questions about his availability as the Chargers prepare to face the Kansas City Chiefs.

By the numbers: While Herbert's rushing ability was on display, his passing statistics were less impressive.

He finished with a career-low completion percentage of 46.2% and recorded only 139 passing yards, marking the sixth-fewest of his career.

Additionally, he threw one interception and lost a fumble, contributing to a challenging outing for the Chargers’ offense.

What to watch: Herbert's limited participation in practice indicates that the injury may impact his performance against the Chiefs.

The Chargers are facing a critical matchup with Kansas City (6-7), who are always a formidable opponent in the division.

Herbert's health will be closely monitored leading up to the game, as his mobility is essential for a team that relies on both his arm and legs to create opportunities.

Yes, but: Herbert expressed optimism despite his struggles, suggesting a strong commitment to the team's goals.

"In the moment I think that was the best thing that I could have done for the team," he said, reflecting on his performance despite the injury.

"I missed a lot of throws and played uncharacteristically," he acknowledged, indicating a desire to improve and meet the expectations set by the team.

The big picture: As the playoffs approach, the Chargers need to rally around Herbert, regardless of his physical limitations.

If he can play through the pain effectively, his experience and leadership will be invaluable in a high-stakes game against a familiar foe.

Should he struggle, the Chargers may need to adjust their offensive strategy to rely more heavily on their running game and defense.

What's next: The Chargers will continue to assess Herbert's condition throughout the week leading up to the Chiefs game.

Fans and analysts alike will keep a close eye on updates from the training facility to gauge whether Herbert can return to form or if the team will need to pivot in their game plan.

The bottom line: Herbert’s ability to perform under duress will be tested in the coming days, and how the Chargers handle this situation could define their postseason aspirations.