The Los Angeles Chargers are in a crucial stage of their preparations for the 2025 NFL season, with quarterback Justin Herbert firmly established as the team’s centerpiece. Despite his individual merits, head coach Jim Harbaugh’s squad continues searching for stability around his on-field leadership.
Harbaugh has transformed the team’s culture since his arrival, implementing a dynamic offensive philosophy. Now in his second year leading the Chargers, the franchise is looking to continue capitalizing on Herbert’s talent and take a step forward in competitiveness.
The preseason has brought promising signs for Los Angeles. Last week, they defeated the Saints 27–13 in an exhibition game, with Trey Lance impressing both through the air and on the ground. Rookie cornerback Eric Rogers also stood out with a pick-six. In this context, Herbert raised his voice, determined not to be left out of the team’s collective improvement.
Herbert’s message to Harbaugh
“It was actually me going to him and saying, ‘Hey, would it be OK if I went in and played?’ Because I think in years past, the plan was to rest. But I wanted to go out there and feel the pass rush because in practice, as a quarterback, you don’t always get the true feeling of the pass rush,” Herbert told Eric Smith of the team’s website.
Clearly, after seeing Lance’s strong performance, Herbert also wants to feel comfortable in game situations before the regular season kicks off. The Chargers’ starting quarterback doesn’t want to risk losing ground in Harbaugh’s consideration.
Herbert spoke with Harbaugh
“I thought it would be helpful to go. He was understanding, and we worked together to figure it out. I thought playing could be good for me and for the team,” said Herbert, who hasn’t played a single preseason game from 2021 to 2024. While there had been plans for him to take the field against the Saints, he is now expected to see some action in the Chargers’ next preseason matchup against the Los Angeles Rams.