Chargers QB Justin Herbert did not practice on Wednesday. He participated in the teams' walkthrough and was on the field. But just 48 hours or so after surgery on his left hand, Herbert wasn't quite ready yet. Despite missing practice yesterday, Herbert said that starting on Monday vs. the Eagles was still the plan.
Today in El Segundo, there was a sigh of relief. Herbert participated in Thursday's practice mere days after breaking his non-throwing hand and having surgery. He was spotted in a cast device on his hand that he likely will intend on wearing under a glove with padding. Herbert was officially reported as a limited participant in Thursday's practice.
Chargers QB Justin Herbert practiced on Thursday for the first time since surgery for his broken hand.
Herbert was seen participating in throwing drills along with the other quarterbacks. However, the Chargers reeled him in a little bit for his first practice back. While in drills, Herbert did not actually take snaps under center with his hand considering the circumstances. He was instead handed the ball by a staff member before dropping back to pass.
His passes with his non-broken right hand were still about as good as they usually are.
The Chargers have one more day of practice tomorrow before Herbert's game status will be revealed in a final injury report on Saturday. Considering that he was able to practice today, participation in Friday's practice feels like a lock. The question will be just how much he practices in addition to the amount of work he's able to do in team drills and snapping the ball from under center.
OC Greg Roman expressed optimism in Herbert's ability to play vs. the Eagles at his media availability on Thursday.
"For this game in particular, we're really optimistic Justin's going to play," Roman said. "Trey's getting some great work right now. We'll see how far we can push that. But I think we gotta be ready for both."
Roman was also asked about the question of what will happen under center for the Chargers considering Herbert's injury. He mentioned and reaffirmed HC Jim Harbaugh's point yesterday that the team largely can recreate what they need to out of pistol/shotgun looks except for the I-Formation.
Lance working under center in the game even if Herbert starts is also under consideration per Roman. "We'll do whatever it takes," Roman said. "If that's the case, so be it."
Thursday's participation in practice is massive for Herbert and the Chargers before MNF. Hopefully, Friday's practice involves another step forward in practice and on the injury report for LA's signal caller.