After discouraging injury update, Chargers should consider shutting down QB Justin Herbert

"All of our focus has got to be on his future," Chargers head coach Brandon Staley said Monday, per The Athletic's Daniel Popper. "Certainly, there's nothing more important than that, than his right hand and his long-term future. He's 25 years old. He's got a really, really bright future in front of him. Every decision is going to be with that in mind."  

Over the past two seasons, Herbert has been sacked 67 times — the sixth most in the league. He's also played through significant injuries, including fractured rib cartilage and a broken left middle finger.

Even if he can return, putting the face of the franchise at risk when the team basically has no chance to make the postseason seems nonsensical. After the 24-7 loss to the Broncos (7-6), the New York Times simulator gives the Chargers (5-8) less than a one percent chance to make the playoffs.

Los Angeles' inexperienced backup QB Easton Stick might struggle if he fills in for Herbert. The former fifth-rounder has only played in two games in two seasons, completing 56 percent of his passes and posting a below-average 79.2 passer rating.

Still, protecting the franchise cornerstone is paramount. The Chargers don't want injuries to derail his promising career.