What Happened to Justin Herbert: Will the Chargers QB Return After Left Hand Scare?

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert left the Week 13 game against the Las Vegas Raiders on December 30, 2025 after suffering a left hand injury. He jogged to the locker room with trainers and was ruled questionable to return. Backup quarterback Trey Lance entered the game after Herbert exited.

The injury occurred in the first quarter when Herbert’s left hand made contact during a play. The Chargers medical staff quickly evaluated him on the sideline before sending him to the locker room for further tests. The update matters because the Chargers face the Philadelphia Eagles in Los Angeles in eight days.

What Happened to Justin Herbert During the Raiders Game?

Justin Herbert sustained the injury during an early offensive possession. Broadcast cameras showed him flexing his left hand and signaling to the sideline. Trainers examined the hand before escorting him inside for additional evaluation. According to multiple game updates, Herbert was officially listed as questionable.

The Chargers turned to Trey Lance once Herbert exited. Lance took immediate snaps to keep the offense moving. Herbert’s status is critical for the Chargers because he leads the offensive structure and controls the passing rhythm. A hand injury, even on the non-throwing side, can affect snaps, ball security, and overall comfort.

Trusted outlets reported that Herbert injured his finger during the play. The exact severity remains unclear as of the first-quarter update. The team is expected to provide a more detailed report after medical imaging. Fans and analysts noted the timing with the upcoming Eagles matchup, a game with major implications for the Chargers’ season momentum.

Herbert has dealt with injuries in past years but has maintained a strong reputation for durability. The team will monitor swelling, grip strength, and mobility before determining if he can return to action today or prepare for next week’s schedule. Early reports did not indicate a fracture or serious displacement, but official confirmation is pending.

How the Injury Affects the Chargers Moving Forward

Trey Lance’s entry changes the offensive strategy. Lance brings mobility and improvisation, but the Chargers built their scheme around Herbert’s timing throws. A sudden shift can disrupt rhythm. Coaches will likely simplify reads and rely more on the running game.

If Herbert cannot return, the Chargers may adjust practice plans this week. They will also prepare for the Eagles with modified quarterback rotations. The team must protect Herbert’s long-term health while keeping playoff hopes alive. The next update will determine whether this is a minor setback or a short-term concern.

Justin Herbert’s injury will remain a key storyline until the Chargers provide official results. Fans await clarity on what happened to Justin Herbert and whether he will return soon. More updates are expected after medical tests are completed.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to Justin Herbert today?

Herbert injured his left hand in the first quarter against the Raiders. He went to the locker room for evaluation. He is questionable to return.

Q2: Why is Trey Lance playing for the Chargers?

Trey Lance entered the game after Herbert left due to injury. The team needed a replacement while Herbert underwent testing.

Q3: Is Justin Herbert’s injury serious?

Early reports do not confirm the severity. He is listed as questionable. More details will come after testing.

Q4: Will Justin Herbert play against the Eagles next week?

It is too early to know. The team will decide after evaluating his hand and tracking recovery over the next few days.

Q5: What part of Herbert’s hand was injured?

Reports state it involved his left hand and possibly a finger. Official confirmation is pending further medical review.