Mon Dec 29 22:00:00 UTC 2025: Summary:

The Los Angeles Chargers will rest quarterback Justin Herbert for their Week 18 game against the Denver Broncos due to a fractured left hand he’s been playing through since Week 13. Backup quarterback Trey Lance will start, with DJ Uiagalelei as backup. Coach Jim Harbaugh emphasized the focus is on health and winning. Other starters might also be rested. The game’s outcome will affect the Chargers’ playoff seeding, with a chance to move as high as the fifth seed.

News Article:

Chargers to Rest Justin Herbert in Week 18 Finale Against Broncos

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. – The Los Angeles Chargers will sit quarterback Justin Herbert for their final regular-season game against the Denver Broncos this Sunday, coach Jim Harbaugh announced Monday. Herbert has been playing with a fractured left hand since Week 13.

Backup Trey Lance is slated to start, with DJ Uiagalelei, elevated from the practice squad, backing him up. Harbaugh indicated other starters might also be rested as the team prioritizes player health heading into the playoffs.

“Winning and health, being healthy, those are our two objectives,” Harbaugh said.

The Chargers were eliminated from AFC West title contention following their loss to the Houston Texans last week. The outcome of Sunday’s game will impact the Chargers’ playoff seeding, as they look to improve from a potential sixth or seventh seed.

Herbert finishes his season with 3,727 passing yards, 26 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions, also rushing for a career-high 498 yards and two touchdowns.

Read More