Herbert Listed as Questionable as Chargers Await Final Call for Week 14

Justin Herbert’s status for Week 14 remains uncertain, but signs point toward progress as the Los Angeles Chargers prepare for a pivotal “Monday Night Football” meeting with the Philadelphia Eagles. The franchise quarterback fractured his left hand during the team’s Week 13 win over the Las Vegas Raiders, an injury that required surgery and initially cast doubt on his short-term availability.

Despite the setback, Herbert has been active on the practice field throughout the week, participating in limited fashion and demonstrating steady improvement. His mobility and mechanics have been closely monitored by both team medical staff and coaches, especially with the Chargers still fighting to stay competitive in the AFC playoff picture.

On Saturday, the Chargers officially listed Herbert as questionable, placing him alongside running backs Omarion Hampton and Hassan Haskins, as well as defensive tackle Otito Ogbonnia. Tight end Tucker Fisk was ruled out. The designation sets up a game-day decision that could significantly influence Los Angeles’ offensive approach.

As anticipation builds, Herbert’s availability remains the biggest variable entering Monday night. If he cannot go, it would mark his first missed game of the season, shifting the Chargers’ plans at a critical point in their campaign.

1. Practice Progress and Injury Outlook

Herbert logged limited participation in the Chargers’ Thursday and Friday practices, and the team’s final Saturday report is still pending. Early signs, however, suggest he is trending upward following last week’s surgery. Coaches have noted that he has maintained solid rhythm in individual drills and thrown comfortably during controlled sessions. The quarterback has been spotted wearing a custom protective cast on his left hand, engineered to stabilize the injury while still allowing him to grip the football. Observers at practice reported that Herbert appeared relatively unbothered by the cast, though team personnel have avoided giving any specifics about game-day plans. While Herbert’s right hand remains his throwing hand, any injury affecting his non-dominant hand still carries concerns, particularly in handling snaps, securing the ball, and absorbing contact. The Chargers have kept their evaluations conservative and plan to assess him again during pre-game warmups. If Herbert is cleared, the decision may hinge on whether the cast is suitable for in-game competition. The team has not confirmed whether he would wear it during Monday’s matchup.

2. Impact on Chargers’ Game Plan

The Chargers enter Week 14 relying heavily on Herbert’s stability and production. Through 12 games, he has thrown for 2,842 yards and totaled 22 touchdowns, all while completing nearly 67% of his passes. His consistency has been a bright spot in an otherwise uneven season for Los Angeles. Should Herbert be unavailable, the Chargers would need to pivot to their backup options for the first time this year. That shift would not only reduce offensive explosiveness but also force a recalibration of the team’s approach against one of the NFC’s most physical defenses. Los Angeles has also listed key contributors Omarion Hampton, Hassan Haskins, and Otito Ogbonnia as questionable—potential depth limitations that further complicate the game plan. With the Eagles posing challenges both in the trenches and the secondary, the Chargers will need stability at the quarterback position to maintain balance on offense. Regardless of Herbert’s designation, head coach Brandon Staley is preparing the team for multiple scenarios. Offensive adjustments are expected to be in place depending on which direction the final decision leans.

3. A Streak on the Line

Herbert has not missed a game since the 2023–24 season, making his durability a key element of the Chargers’ identity. His availability has allowed the team to maintain continuity despite injuries at other positions, and his leadership remains a central part of the locker room’s resilience. With the Chargers sitting on the edge of relevance in the AFC race, Monday’s matchup with Philadelphia carries significant weight. A win would help keep postseason hopes afloat, while a loss could widen the gap between Los Angeles and the conference’s crowded field of contenders. Herbert’s status could ultimately influence the Chargers’ trajectory as they enter the final stretch of the season. Coaches, teammates, and fans alike will be watching closely as kickoff approaches. The decision on Herbert’s availability may not come until moments before Monday night’s game, and the Chargers’ outlook hinges greatly on the result.