The LA Chargers announced on Monday that they will bench star quarterback Justin Herbert for their Week 18 clash against the Denver Broncos. Chargers coach Jim Harabuagh said that Herbert has “got bruises that need to heal” before the playoffs, while confirming that Trey Lance will start against Denver.

While the decision was made to give Herbert some rest for the postseason, analyst Kay Adams was not too pleased with the Chargers’ judgment when she caught wind of the news.

“I get why but also I dunno if I like this. Actually I don’t,” Adams tweeted on Monday.

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The Chargers have locked in the No. 6 seed in the AFC. They also cannot win the AFC West title in their regular-season finale.

Harbaugh also said that he wants his key starters to remain healthy for the playoff games, which are more important in comparison to the Week 18 clash against the Broncos.

“Winning and health, being healthy, those are our two objectives,” Harbaugh said. “And guys that we think — the doctors, the trainers, myself, organization — that have the most bruises and need that time the most, we’ve decided that’s the direction we’re going.”

However, the Broncos can lock in the No. 1 seed if they beat the Chargers on Sunday.

How has Chargers QB Justin Herbert fared this season?

Justin Herbert could do with some rest before the playoffs. The Chargers quarterback has taken a career-high 54 sacks in 16 games this season.

Herbert will finish the 2025 regular season having completed 340 of 512 passes for 3,727 yards with 26 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. He has also added 498 yards and two TDs on 83 carries, leading the Chargers to an 11-5 record.

Herbert’s strong performances earned a second Pro Bowl honor of his career this season.