In a strategic move ahead of the NFL postseason, the Los Angeles Chargers have decided to rest their star quarterback, Justin Herbert, for the final game of the regular season. Head coach Jim Harbaugh made the official announcement on Monday, confirming Herbert will not start in Week 18 against the Denver Broncos.
Strategic Rest Over Regular Season Finish
The decision stems from the team's secured position in the playoff picture. With the AFC West division title already clinched by the Denver Broncos and the Chargers locked into a wild-card berth, the game's outcome has minimal impact on their postseason seeding. Harbaugh emphasised that the priority is now player health and playoff preparation, a common late-season strategy across the league.
NFL insider Adam Schefter supported this on social media platform X, stating the move was a planned and strategic decision, not a reaction to any new injury or setback for Herbert. The team is choosing to protect its most valuable assets before the high-stakes knockout games begin.
Backup Quarterbacks Step Into the Spotlight
With Herbert on the sidelines, the Chargers' offense will be led by backup quarterbacks Gardner Minshew and Chris Oladokun. Minshew brings valuable experience from relief appearances this season, while Oladokun, though with limited game snaps, has been preparing in practice for such an opportunity.
Fans can expect the offensive game plan to adapt significantly. The team is likely to employ a more conservative approach, focusing on safer passing plays, shorter throws, and a heavier reliance on the running game. This will help manage the game and protect the backup signal-callers in their extended roles.
A Healthier Herbert for the Playoff Charge
The primary benefit of this decision is ensuring Justin Herbert enters the playoffs fully rested and healthy. By avoiding the physical risks of a final, inconsequential game, Herbert gains crucial recovery time. This extra rest can positively affect his mobility, arm strength, and overall sharpness, factors that become paramount in win-or-go-home scenarios.
The Chargers are also expected to rest other key starters, ensuring the core of the team is fresh. For the franchise and its fans, Herbert's health is directly tied to their championship aspirations. All attention now shifts to the wild-card round, where Herbert will return to lead the team's pursuit of Super Bowl glory.
While the Week 18 matchup against the Broncos will have a different feel, the Chargers' focus is unequivocally on the future. The regular season's final whistle will simply mark the beginning of their true campaign, one they hope will be powered by a fully charged Justin Herbert.
