Justin Herbert Injured, DJ Uiagalelei Makes NFL Debut as Chargers Fall to 0-8 in Loss to Texans
Bleacher Report • • sports
Key Points:
- Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert suffered a finger injury during Sunday's 44-22 loss to the Houston Texans, with head coach Jim Harbaugh indicating it could be a fracture, but the severity is still unknown.
- Herbert wanted to continue playing despite the injury, but the coaching staff decided to have backup QB DJ Uiagalelei finish the game, marking Uiagalelei's NFL debut.
- Uiagalelei completed his first NFL game with 24 yards and a touchdown on 2-of-7 passing, while Herbert had a tough outing with 193 yards, one touchdown, and an interception.
- Herbert's recent performance has been underwhelming, with only five touchdowns and 10 interceptions over eight games, and no touchdown passes since Week 5, raising questions about his status as the starter.
- Uiagalelei, who went undrafted in 2025 and spent time on the Chargers' practice squad, was promoted to backup after Trey Lance's injury, and could potentially provide a spark for the struggling Chargers amid their 0-8 start.
