Justin Herbert apparently seriously injured himself while throwing during the second half of the Los Angeles Chargers’ game against the Arizona Cardinals on Monday.

ESPN sideline reporter Molly McGrath was able to provide a quick update on the Chargers quarterback, who missed no time because his hand was bothering him.

“After the last drive in LA, Justin Herbert came to the sideline and immediately signaled to the medical staff to look at his right hand,” McGrath said. “They examined his thumb closely and placed a heating pad on that hand. I’m told he’s fine, but he keeps opening and closing his hand.

“The offensive line was also very frustrated with their inability to protect their quarterback. Remember, Jim Harbaugh said we must protect Herbert at all costs.”

Herbert was sacked three times before McGrath’s report, who were 7-6 against the Cardinals at the time. Not only that, but the Chargers’ rushing attack was limited to under 50 yards over time, with the majority of their offensive production coming through the air through Herbert. If his throwing hand is injured, it could hamper the LA offense in the final quarter.

It’s not the first time the Chargers franchise quarterback has suffered a blow during the regular season. Last month, Herbert was diagnosed with an upper ankle sprain but managed to play through the pain. He hasn’t missed a game for Los Angeles this season.

Justin Herbert is in his fifth season in the NFL after being drafted by the Chargers in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft. He had an excellent start to his career, including being named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2020 and earning Pro Bowl honors in 2021.

It is unclear how serious Herbert’s injury is and whether he will have to miss any training time in the future to heal the injury.