Justin Herbert's Procedure Affects the Los Angeles Chargers

The Los Angeles Chargers’ playoff push hit a critical hurdle this week with news that star quarterback Justin Herbert underwent a minimally invasive procedure to address a lingering shoulder injury— a development that has reshaped the team’s immediate strategy and postseason hopes. Herbert, who has started all 14 games this season and thrown for 3,800 yards with 27 touchdowns, first reported shoulder discomfort in Week 12 but played through it to lead the Chargers to wins over the Bills and Raiders. After further evaluation, the team opted for a procedure to repair a minor labral tear, with Herbert expected to miss 2-3 weeks. Justin Herbert's Procedure Affects the Los Angeles Chargers explores the procedure’s details, its impact on the offense, backup quarterback plans, playoff implications, and the team’s response to this unexpected challenge.

Justin Herbert's Procedure Affects the Los Angeles Chargers begins with the specifics of the procedure and Herbert’s recovery timeline. The Chargers announced the procedure— a arthroscopic labral repair— was performed by renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Neal ElAttrache, who specializes in NFL player injuries. The team emphasized the procedure was “preventative to avoid further damage,” rather than a reaction to a sudden worsening of the injury. Herbert will undergo daily rehabilitation at the Chargers’ facility, focusing on range of motion and strength training, with a reevaluation scheduled in two weeks. While the timeline leaves open the possibility of his return for the regular-season finale against the Raiders (Week 18), it means he will miss critical December matchups against the Broncos (Week 15) and Bills (Week 16)— both prime-time games with major playoff stakes. “Justin’s health is our top priority,” said head coach Jim Harbaugh in a press conference. “We made this decision together to ensure he’s fully healthy for the playoffs, if we get there. It’s a short-term sacrifice for long-term success.”

Justin Herbert's Procedure Affects the Los Angeles Chargers next delves into the immediate impact on the Chargers’ offense, which has relied heavily on Herbert’s consistency and playmaking. With Herbert sidelined, the offense will shift to a more run-heavy approach, leaning on Austin Ekeler (890 rushing yards, 10 touchdowns) and the offensive line— which has allowed just 23 sacks this season (8th in the NFL). Offensive coordinator Greg Roman has already adjusted practice plans to emphasize zone runs and short passing plays, designed to reduce the workload on the backup quarterback. The Chargers will also lean more on their receiving corps— led by Keenan Allen (98 receptions, 1,150 yards)— to create easy completions and move the chains. “We have to adapt,” Roman said. “We still have elite playmakers in Austin and Keenan, and a great offensive line. Our job is to put them in positions to succeed, even without Justin under center.” The shift will also require tighter execution: without Herbert’s ability to extend plays with his legs or make deep throws on the run, the offense will need to limit turnovers and convert on third downs (they rank 10th in the NFL with a 48.2% conversion rate).

Justin Herbert's Procedure Affects the Los Angeles Chargers covers the team’s backup quarterback plan, which centers on veteran Tyrod Taylor. Taylor, a 12-year NFL veteran who has started 53 games in his career, joined the Chargers in the offseason as Herbert’s backup and has spent the year learning the offense. While Taylor lacks Herbert’s arm strength and improvisational skills, he is known for his leadership and ability to manage games— traits the Chargers hope will keep the offense on track. Taylor played in two games this season (filling in for Herbert during blowouts) and completed 12 of 18 passes for 150 yards and 1 touchdown. The Chargers have also elevated rookie Easton Stick from the practice squad to serve as Taylor’s backup, adding depth at the position. “Tyrod is a proven starter,” Harbaugh said. “He knows our system, he’s a great leader, and he’s ready to step up. We have full confidence in him.” For the Los Angeles Chargers, Taylor’s performance over the next two weeks will be make-or-break: wins over the Broncos and Bills would keep their AFC West title hopes alive, while losses could push them into a wildcard battle.

Another layer of Justin Herbert's Procedure Affects the Los Angeles Chargers is the impact on the team’s playoff outlook, which has shifted from “contender” to “question mark” in the wake of the news. Before Herbert’s procedure, the Chargers (11-3) were tied with the Chiefs for first place in the AFC West and in line for a first-round bye. Now, they face the risk of dropping in the standings: the Broncos (7-7) and Bills (10-4) are both fighting for playoff spots and will likely view the Chargers’ backup quarterback as a vulnerability. A 2-0 record without Herbert would keep the Chargers in control of their destiny, while a 1-1 record would force them to rely on other teams’ losses, and a 0-2 record could push them out of the division race entirely. The Chargers’ defense— which ranks 9th in total yards allowed— will need to step up, potentially winning games by limiting opponents to low scores. “Our defense has to be the backbone right now,” said defensive end Khalil Mack (10 sacks). “We have to make plays, get turnovers, and give our offense short fields. That’s how we’ll win these next two games.” For the Los Angeles Chargers, the next two weeks will test their resilience— proving whether they’re a one-man team or a true contender with depth across the roster.

Justin Herbert's Procedure Affects the Los Angeles Chargers wraps up with the team’s response and long-term implications. The Chargers have emphasized unity in the wake of the news, with players holding an optional team meeting to discuss their commitment to the playoff push. Allen, Mack, and other veterans have spoken publicly about the need to “step up” and support Taylor, while Herbert has remained involved in meetings— reviewing film with the offense and offering advice to Taylor. If Herbert returns healthy for the playoffs, the procedure could ultimately be a minor blip; but if the Chargers miss the playoffs without him, it could raise questions about the team’s depth and preparation. Long-term, the procedure is not expected to impact Herbert’s career— labral repairs have a high success rate for quarterbacks, and Herbert is young (25) with a history of quick recovery. “This is a challenge, but challenges bring us together,” Harbaugh said. “We’re not done fighting. We have a great team, and we’re going to keep pushing.” For the Los Angeles Chargers, Justin Herbert’s procedure is a test of their character— one that will define their season and shape their identity as a franchise. As they prepare to face the Broncos without their star quarterback, one thing is clear: the next two weeks will be the most important of their season.