When Will Justin Herbert Return to Chargers? Harbaugh Says QB Needs Surgery on Injury

Amid the Los Angeles Chargers' push for a division title, star quarterback Justin Herbert is dealing with an injury.

The quarterback underwent successful surgery on Monday for a fracture in his left hand and he is considered day-to-day, the team announced.

Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh initially told reporters after Sunday's win over the Las Vegas Raiders that Herbert suffered the fracture and it would require surgery. Harbaugh said he was unsure if Herbert would miss time.

Herbert told reporters that doctors were "pretty hopeful" that he won't miss any time:

Herbert has had a strong start to the season so far, throwing for 2,691 yards and 19 touchdowns. The Chargers are 8-4 heading into their Week 14 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles.

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Herbert has been mostly durable throughout his career, though he has taken a few injury blows in recent years.

After suffering a season-ending finger injury in December 2023, Herbert's 2024 season started with more injury woes. He suffered plantar fasciitis over the summer, forcing him to miss much of training camp and wear a walking boot for two weeks.

While that injury didn't prohibit him from missing the start of the season, Herbert played through a high ankle sprain in Week 2 and reinjured his ankle in Week 3 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The fifth-year quarterback finished the 2023 season with 3,870 passing yards, 23 touchdowns and just three interceptions. In 2024, Herbert racked up 3,870 passing yards, 23 touchdowns and three interceptions while leading the Chargers to an 11-6 finish.

He's putting together a strong campaign this year, but he'll now have to overcome his latest injury.

If Herbert is out for Sunday's matchup against the Eagles, the Chargers will likely turn to Trey Lance in relief. Lance, the former No. 3 overall pick in the 2021 draft, joined the Chargers this offseason after spending the last two seasons with the Dallas Cowboys. He has appeared in four games, recording 81 passing yards on six of his 12 attempts.