Justin Herbert
{{short description|American football player (born 1998)}}
{{Use American English|date=September 2020}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=December 2024}}
{{Infobox NFL biography
| name = Justin Herbert
| image = Justin Herbert 2021.jpg
| image_size =
| alt =
| caption = Herbert with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2021
| current_team = Los Angeles Chargers
| number = 10
| position = Quarterback
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1998|3|10|mf=y}}
| birth_place = Eugene, Oregon, U.S.
| death_date =
| death_place =
| height_ft = 6
| height_in = 6
| weight_lb = 236
| high_school = Sheldon (Eugene, Oregon)
| college = Oregon (2016–2019)
| draftyear = 2020
| draftround = 1
| draftpick = 6
| pastteams =
- Los Angeles Chargers ({{NFL Year|2020}}–present)
| status = Active
| highlights =
- NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (2020)
- Pro Bowl (2021)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2020)
- William V. Campbell Trophy (2019)
;NFL records
- Most passing touchdowns by a rookie: 31
- Most pass completions by a rookie: 396
| statseason = 2024
| statweek = 18
| statlabel1 = Passing attempts
| statvalue1 = 2,926
| statlabel2 = Passing completions
| statvalue2 = 1,945
| statlabel3 = Completion percentage
| statvalue3 = 66.5%
| statvalue4 = 137–45
| statlabel5 = Passing yards
| statvalue5 = 21,093
| statlabel6 = Passer rating
| statvalue6 = 96.7
| pfr = HerbJu00
}}
Justin Patrick Herbert (born March 10, 1998) is an American professional football quarterback for the Los Angeles Chargers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Oregon Ducks, where he won the 2019 Pac-12 Championship, and was selected by the Chargers as the sixth overall pick in the 2020 NFL draft.
Herbert became the Chargers' starting quarterback in the second game of his rookie year. He remained the starter for the rest of the season and set several rookie statistical records, including the most touchdown passes and 300-yard games. He was named the AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year for his performance. In 2021, he became the first quarterback in Chargers history to throw for over 5,000 yards and was named to his first Pro Bowl. He signed a five-year, $262.5 million contract extension ahead of the 2023 season.
{{TOClimit|limit=3}}
Early life
Herbert was born in Eugene, Oregon, on March 10, 1998, and attended Sheldon High School, where he played football, basketball, and baseball.{{Cite web |last=Jennings |first=Chantel |date=November 22, 2016 |title=Oregon's Justin Herbert adjusting to life as the Pac-12's baby-faced QB |url=http://www.espn.com/blog/pac12/post/_/id/106451/justin-herbert-balances-life-as-the-pac-12s-baby-faced-qb |access-date=November 26, 2017 |website=ESPN.com}} During the third football game of his junior season, he suffered a broken leg, complicating his recruitment process.{{Cite web |last=Jude |first=Adam |date=October 10, 2018 |title=How the Huskies’ interest in an unknown Justin Herbert nudged the QB to rival Oregon |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/uw-husky-football/how-the-huskies-interest-in-an-unknown-justin-herbert-nudged-the-qb-to-rival-oregon/ |access-date=September 15, 2024 |website=The Seattle Times}} As a senior, Herbert passed for 3,130 yards and 37 touchdowns, and rushed for 543 yards and 10 touchdowns.{{Cite web |last=Morris |first=Gus |date=October 12, 2016 |title=Straight Outta Sheldon: Freshman quarterback Justin Herbert is a homegrown talent |url=https://www.dailyemerald.com/archives/straight-outta-sheldon-freshman-quarterback-justin-herbert-is-a-homegrown-talent/article_ac86e17b-dfe4-5672-870a-0510d3105499.html |access-date=December 1, 2020 |website=Daily Emerald}} He was named first-team All-State{{Cite web |last=Daniels |first=Riley |date=November 27, 2020 |title=Former Oregon high school quarterback turns into NFL star |url=https://lohslakeviews.com/2392/sports/former-oregon-high-school-quarterback-turns-into-nfl-star/ |access-date=December 1, 2020 |website=Lake Views}} and the Southwest Conference Offensive Player of the Year.{{Cite web |date=February 4, 2016 |title=Oregon 2016 recruiting profiles: Justin Herbert, quarterback |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/northwest/oregon-ducks/oregon-2016-recruiting-profiles-justin-herbert-quarterback |access-date=December 1, 2020 |website=RSN |archive-date=April 14, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210414173932/https://www.nbcsports.com/northwest/oregon-ducks/oregon-2016-recruiting-profiles-justin-herbert-quarterback |url-status=dead }} Northern Arizona, Portland State, and Montana State extended offers before Nevada and Oregon followed up with his only NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision offers. Herbert committed to Oregon in October 2015.{{Cite web |title=Justin Herbert – Football Recruiting – Player Profiles |url=http://www.espn.com/college-sports/football/recruiting/player/_/id/216696/justin-herbert |access-date=November 12, 2022 |website=ESPN.com}} Herbert also co-founded the Sheldon High School Fishing Club while in high school and served as their president.{{Cite web |last=Eberhardt |first= Adam |date=November 20, 2016 |title=Justin Herbert put Sheldon High's fishing club on the map|url=https://www.dailyemerald.com/sports/football/justin-herbert-put-sheldon-high-s-fishing-club-on-the-map/article_9b74a66f-faa5-52c6-bc47-34936e2d97c8.html|access-date=February 5, 2023 |website=Daily Emerald}}
College career
= 2016 season =
Entering his true freshman season listed as QB2 on the depth chart behind Dakota Prukop,{{Cite web |last=Alger |first=Tyson |date=August 26, 2016 |title=Prukop named Ducks starting QB, Justin Herbert the backup |url=https://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/2016/08/dakota_prukop_named_oregon_duc.html |access-date=September 28, 2020 |website=oregonlive}} Herbert became the first true freshman at Oregon to start at quarterback since Chris Miller in 1983 when the Ducks took on their arch-rivals, the Washington Huskies, on October 8, 2016.{{Cite web |last=Alger |first=Tyson |date=October 9, 2016 |title=Oregon Ducks list Justin Herbert as starter against Washington |url=https://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/2016/10/oregon_ducks_list_justin_herbe.html |access-date=September 28, 2020 |website=oregonlive}} Despite Herbert setting or equaling Oregon's single-game records for total offensive yards (512), passing yards (489), and touchdown passes (6),{{Cite web |title=Justin Herbert – 2018 Football Roster |url=https://goducks.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7948 |access-date=September 28, 2020 |website=goducks.com}} the Ducks finished with their worst season in 25 years, going 4–8 and failing to make a bowl game for the first time in over a decade.{{Cite web |date=December 1, 2016 |title=Ducks fire Helfrich after worst season in 25 years |url=https://www.lagrandeobserver.com/sports/ducks-fire-helfrich-after-worst-season-in-25-years/article_a4e739b8-08aa-5fd7-a89b-57ea5dd3bf30.html |access-date=September 28, 2020 |website=The Observer |agency=Associated Press}}
After the fifth game of the season, Herbert became the starting quarterback. He showcased his talents by throwing for 1,936 yards including 19 touchdowns with just four interceptions in eight starts.{{Cite web |title=Justin Herbert 2016 Game Log |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/justin-herbert-1/gamelog/2016 |access-date=November 12, 2022 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} He led a come-from-behind upset when playing the ranked No. 11 Utah Utes. The team scored four touchdowns in the final 15:27 of the game to overcome a 14–3 deficit. On the final drive, Herbert completed 6-of-9 passes for 63 yards, including a 17-yard game-winning touchdown pass with two seconds left.{{Cite web |date=November 20, 2016 |title=Oregon upsets No. 11 Utah 30–28 on late Carrington TD catch |url=https://apnews.com/article/f4d9f132d17e476087268807ae111ee1 |access-date=September 28, 2020 |website=AP NEWS}}
= 2017 season =
The Ducks entered the 2017 season with new head coach Willie Taggart.{{Cite web |date=December 6, 2016 |title=Source: Oregon to name Willie Taggart new head football coach |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/northwest/oregon-ducks/source-oregon-name-willie-taggart-new-head-football-coach |access-date=September 28, 2020 |website=RSN |archive-date=October 1, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201001130433/https://www.nbcsports.com/northwest/oregon-ducks/source-oregon-name-willie-taggart-new-head-football-coach |url-status=dead }} Leading the Ducks to a 4–1 start, Herbert's transition from the Chip Kelly/Mark Helfrich-era's "Blur Offense" to Taggart's "Gulf Coast Offense" was successful, before he fractured his collarbone against the California Golden Bears on September 30, 2017.{{Cite magazine |last=Feldman |first=Bruce |date=October 1, 2017 |title=Oregon QB Justin Herbert expected back in '17 |url=https://www.si.com/college/2017/10/01/oregon-qb-justin-herbert-out-indefinitely-broken-collarbone |access-date=September 28, 2020 |magazine=Sports Illustrated}}
Without Herbert in the lineup, the Ducks dropped four of their next five games, and the offense went from averaging 49.2 points per game to just 15.0 points per game.{{Cite web |last=Skopil |first=Erik |date=December 26, 2017 |title=Oregon Positions in Review: Quarterback |url=https://247sports.com/college/oregon/Article/We-break-down-who-Oregon-QBs-fared-during-the-2018-season-112755647/ |access-date=September 28, 2020 |website=DuckTerritory}} Herbert returned to help the Ducks win their last two regular season games to become bowl eligible.{{Cite web |last=Piraro |first=Tony |date=November 25, 2017 |title=Game Recap: Oregon humiliates Oregon State 69–10 for largest margin of victory in Civil War history |url=https://www.addictedtoquack.com/2017/11/25/16700318/game-recap-oregon-humiliates-oregon-state-69-10-for-largest-margin-of-victory-in-civil-war-history |access-date=September 28, 2020 |website=Addicted To Quack}} The Ducks were selected to play the Boise State Broncos in the Las Vegas Bowl but their performance fell flat and the Ducks lost 38–28 after Taggart left the team to become the head coach at Florida State a week before their bowl game.{{Cite magazine |last=Feldman |first=Bruce |date=December 5, 2017 |title=Florida State hires Willie Taggart as next coach |url=https://www.si.com/college/2017/12/05/willie-taggart-florida-state-oregon-contract |access-date=September 28, 2020 |magazine=Sports Illustrated}}{{Cite web |last=Canzano |first=John |date=December 17, 2017 |title=Canzano: Las Vegas Bowl didn't matter to Oregon... and it showed in loss |url=https://www.oregonlive.com/sports/oregonian/john_canzano/2017/12/canzano_las_vegas_bowl_didnt_m.html |access-date=September 28, 2020 |website=oregonlive}}
In eight starts, Herbert had a 6–2 record and threw for 1,983 yards on 139-of-206 passing attempts (67.5%), including 15 touchdowns against only five interceptions. He also rushed the ball 44 times for 183 yards and five touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=Justin Herbert 2017 Game Log |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/justin-herbert-1/gamelog/2017 |access-date=November 12, 2022 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} Herbert was named first-team CoSIDA Academic All-American with a 4.08 grade-point average in biology.{{Cite web |date=December 14, 2017 |title=Herbert earns first-team Academic All-America honors |url=https://goducks.com/news/2017/12/14/football-herbert-earns-first-team-academic-all-american-honors.aspx |access-date=September 16, 2021 |website=University of Oregon Athletics |language=en}}
= 2018 season =
Herbert entered his third collegiate season as an early Heisman Trophy candidate despite being coached by a third different head coach. He also learned a third different offensive scheme with new head coach Mario Cristobal, transitioning from the spread offense to the pistol offense.{{Cite web |last=Skopil |first=Erik |date=April 17, 2018 |title=Mastro: Pistol offense 'brings a lot to the table' |url=https://247sports.com/college/oregon/Article/Oregon-Ducks-running-backs-coach-Jim-Mastro-helped-develop-the-pistol-offense-at-Nevada-117435797/ |access-date=October 29, 2020 |website=247Sports.com}} Herbert led the Ducks to a 9–4 record and a victory in the Redbox Bowl. He finished the year with 3,151 passing yards, 29 passing touchdowns, and two rushing touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=Justin Herbert 2018 Game Log |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/justin-herbert-1/gamelog/2018 |access-date=November 12, 2022 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} His 31 total touchdowns were good for second in the Pac-12 Conference behind Gardner Minshew of the Washington State Cougars.{{Cite web |title=2018 Pac-12 Conference Year Summary |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/conferences/pac-12/2018.html |access-date=June 4, 2019 |website=Sports Reference}} He was named to the Pac-12 All-Academic first-team.{{Cite web |date=December 3, 2018 |title=Pac-12 Announces Football All-Academic Teams |url=https://pac-12.com/article/2018/12/02/pac-12-announces-football-all-academic-teams |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181204101928/https://pac-12.com/article/2018/12/02/pac-12-announces-football-all-academic-teams |url-status=dead |archive-date=December 4, 2018 |access-date=October 29, 2020 |website=Pac-12 Conference}}
= 2019 season =
File:Justin Herbert.jpg in 2019]]
Despite projecting as a high draft pick,{{Cite web |last=Heifetz |first=Danny |date=December 27, 2018 |title=Does History Support QB Justin Herbert's NFL Draft Decision? |url=https://www.theringer.com/2018/12/27/18158268/justin-herbert-oregon-ducks-2019-2020-nfl-draft-quarterback-classes |access-date=January 8, 2021 |website=The Ringer }} Herbert announced that he would return to Oregon for his senior season.{{Cite web |last=Gleeson |first=Scott |date=December 26, 2018 |title=Justin Herbert decides to stay at Oregon for senior season and bypass NFL draft |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/pac12/2018/12/26/justin-herbert-passes-nfl-draft-stay-oregon-senior-season/2415263002/ |access-date=January 12, 2018 |website=USA Today}} He led the Ducks to a 12–2 record, including a win in the Rose Bowl where he ran for three touchdowns and was named Offensive MVP.{{Cite web |title=Justin Herbert – Football – University of Oregon Athletics |url=https://goducks.com/sports/football/roster/justin-herbert/8471 |access-date=January 8, 2021 |website=Go Ducks |publisher=University of Oregon Athletics}}{{Cite web |last=Fornelli |first=Tom |date=January 1, 2020 |title=Wisconsin vs. Oregon score, Rose Bowl 2020: Justin Herbert's three rushing TDs send Ducks to victory |url=https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/wisconsin-vs-oregon-score-rose-bowl-2020-justin-herberts-three-rushing-tds-send-ducks-to-victory/live/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=CBS Sports |language=en}} In his best statistical collegiate season, Herbert totaled 3,471 passing yards, 32 passing touchdowns, and four rushing touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=Justin Herbert 2019 Game Log |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/justin-herbert-1/gamelog/2019 |access-date=November 12, 2022 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} In addition to his on-field success, Herbert was named the 30th recipient of the William V. Campbell Trophy, which recognizes excellence in academics, athletics, and leadership, and is also referred to as the "Academic Heisman". He graduated from Oregon with a bachelor's degree in general science.{{Cite web |last=Wade |first=Kevin |date=January 5, 2020 |title=Justin Herbert to be honored during CFP National Title Game |url=https://247sports.com/college/oregon/Article/Justin-Herbert-Oregon-Ducks-Football-Rose-Bowl-NFL-CFP-title--141685854/ |access-date=October 29, 2020 |website=DuckTerritory}}{{Cite web |date=December 10, 2019 |title=Herbert Awarded Campbell Trophy |url=https://goducks.com/news/2019/12/10/football-herbert-awarded-campbell-trophy.aspx |access-date=June 12, 2020 |website=University of Oregon Athletics}}
= College statistics =
| style="text-align:center;" class="wikitable" | |||||||||||||||
| rowspan="2"| Season
! rowspan="2" | Team ! colspan="3" | Games ! colspan="9"| Passing ! colspan="4"| Rushing | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP | GS | Record | Cmp | Att | Pct | Yds | Avg | TD | Int | Rtg | QBR | Att | Yds | Avg | TD |
| 2016
! Oregon | 8 || 7 || 2–5 || 162 || 255 || 63.5 || 1,936 || 7.6 || 19 || 4 || 148.8 || 73.9 || 58 || 161 || 2.8 || 2 | |||||||||||||||
| 2017
! Oregon | 8 || 8 || 6–2 || 139 || 206 || 67.5 || 1,983 || 9.6 || 15 || 5 || 167.5 || 80.1 || 44 || 183 || 4.2 || 5 | |||||||||||||||
| 2018
! Oregon | 13 || 13 || 9–4 || 240 || 404 || 59.4 || 3,151 || 7.8 || 29 || 8 || 144.6 || 76.4 || 71 || 166 || 2.3 || 2 | |||||||||||||||
| 2019
! Oregon | 14 || 14 || 12–2 || 286 || 428 || 66.8 || 3,471 || 8.1 || 32 || 6 || 156.8 || 74.7 || 58 || 50 || 0.9 || 4 | |||||||||||||||
| colspan="2" | [https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/justin-herbert-1.html Career] || 43 || 42 || 29–13 || 827 || 1,293 || 64.0 || 10,541 || 8.2 || 95 || 23 || 153.1 || 75.0 || 231 || 560 || 2.4 || 13 |
=Awards and honors=
; 2016
- Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Week (Pac-12 Coaches) – October 31, 2016 {{Cite web |date=October 31, 2016 |title=Herbert, Victor, Pettis earn weekly Conference honors |url=https://pac-12.com/news/2016/10/31/herbert-victor-pettis-earn-weekly-conference-honors?amp.aspx |access-date=October 29, 2020 |website=Pac-12}}
- Manning Award Quarterback of the Week – November 3, 2016 {{Cite web |last=Larson |first=Sean |date=November 3, 2016 |title=Justin Herbert named Manning Award Quarterback of the Week |url=http://www.addictedtoquack.com/2016/11/3/13510334/justin-herbert-named-manning-award-quarterback-of-the-week |access-date=October 29, 2020 |website=Addicted to Quack |publisher=SB Nation}}
- Len Casanova Award (Oregon Team Award – Best First Year Player) {{Cite web |date=November 28, 2016 |title=Players vote Brooks-James, Dye team MVPs |url=https://www.registerguard.com/article/20161128/SPORTS/311289957 |access-date=October 29, 2020 |website=Register Guard}}
;2017
- Pac-12 Academic All-Conference 1st Team {{Cite web |date=November 30, 2017 |title=Herbert, Throckmorton named first-team Pac-12 All-Academic |url=https://goducks.com/news/2017/11/30/football-herbert-throckmorton-named-first-team-pac-12-all-academic.aspx |access-date=October 29, 2020 |website=GoDucks.com}}
- Academic All American 1st Team
- Offensive Team MVP (Oregon Team Award) {{Cite web |date=December 3, 2017 |title=Freeman, Herbert, Dye Among Honorees At Awards Banquet |url=https://goducks.com/news/2017/12/3/football-freeman-herbert-dye-among-honorees-at-awards-banquet.aspx?path=football |access-date=October 29, 2020 |website=GoDucks.com}}
;2018
- Google Cloud Academic All America 1st Team Member of the Year {{Cite web |date=December 10, 2018 |title=2018 Google Cloud Academic All-America® NCAA Division I Football Team Announced |url=https://academicallamerica.com/news/2018/12/10/2018-google-cloud-academic-all-america-ncaa-division-i-football-team-announced.aspx |access-date=October 29, 2020 |website=academicallamerica.com}}
- Pac-12 All-Academic 1st team
- Skeie's Award (Oregon Team Award – Most Valuable Player) {{Cite web |last=Moseley |first=Rob |date=November 26, 2018 |title=Herbert, Amadi Share Team MVP Award |url=https://goducks.com/news/2018/11/26/football-herbert-amadi-share-team-mvp-award.aspx |access-date=October 29, 2020 |website=University of Oregon Athletics}}
;2019
- Academic All American 1st Team{{Cite web |date=December 9, 2020 |title=2019 Academic All-America NCAA Division I Football Teams Announced |url=https://academicallamerica.com/news/2019/12/9/2019-academic-all-america-ncaa-division-i-football-teams-announced.aspx |access-date=May 7, 2021 |website=Academic All-America Team}}
- Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Week (Pac-12 Coaches) – October 21, 2019 {{Cite web |date=October 21, 2019 |title=Oregon's Justin Herbert named Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Week after 4-touchdown performance |url=https://pac-12.com/videos/oregons-justin-herbert-named-pac-12-offensive-player-week-after-4-touchdown-performance |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191027164749/https://pac-12.com/videos/oregons-justin-herbert-named-pac-12-offensive-player-week-after-4-touchdown-performance |url-status=dead |archive-date=October 27, 2019 |access-date=October 29, 2020 |website=Pac-12}}
- William V. Campbell Trophy{{Cite web |date=December 10, 2019 |title=Oregon's Justin Herbert Awarded NFF's 30th William V. Campbell Trophy® Presented by Mazda |url=https://footballfoundation.org/news/2019/12/10/football-oregons-justin-herbert-awarded-nffs-30th-william-v-campbell-trophy-presented-by-mazda.aspx |access-date=September 28, 2020 |website=National Football Foundation}}
- 2020 Rose Bowl Offensive MVP{{Cite web |date=January 1, 2020 |title=Justin Herbert and Brady Breeze named MVPs of the 2020 Rose Bowl |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/northwest/oregon-ducks/justin-herbert-and-brady-breeze-named-mvps-2020-rose-bowl |access-date=September 28, 2020 |website=RSN |archive-date=October 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201020225912/https://www.nbcsports.com/northwest/oregon-ducks/justin-herbert-and-brady-breeze-named-mvps-2020-rose-bowl |url-status=dead }}
Professional career
{{NFL predraft
| height ft = 6
| height in = 6 1/4
| weight = 236
| dash = 4.68
| ten split = 1.62
| twenty split = 2.75
| shuttle = 4.46
| cone drill = 7.06
| vertical = 36.0
| broad ft = 10
| broad in = 3
| bench =
| arm span = 32 7/8
| hand span = 10
| wonderlic = 39
| note = All values from NFL Combine{{Cite web |title=Justin Herbert Draft and Combine Prospect Profile |url=https://www.nfl.com/prospects/justin-herbert/32004845-5203-1169-a699-ce41d700202a |access-date=March 2, 2020 |website=NFL.com}}{{Cite web |title=Justin Herbert, Oregon, QB, 2020 NFL Draft Scout, NCAA College Football |url=https://draftscout.com/dsprofile.php?PlayerId=1017762&DraftYear=2020 |access-date=November 11, 2021 |website=draftscout.com}}
}}
=2020=
{{See also|2020 Los Angeles Chargers season}}
File:Los Angeles Chargers (51156573705).jpg]]
Herbert was selected sixth overall by the Los Angeles Chargers in the first round of the 2020 NFL draft.{{cite web|url=https://www.ocregister.com/2020/04/23/chargers-draft-justin-herbert-no-6-overall-to-be-next-franchise-quarterback/|title=Chargers draft Justin Herbert No. 6 overall to be next franchise QB|work=Orange County Register|first=Gilbert|last=Manzano|date=April 23, 2020|access-date=July 10, 2024}}{{Cite web |title=2020 NFL Draft Listing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2020/draft.htm |access-date=May 18, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He was the third quarterback taken, behind Joe Burrow and Tua Tagovailoa.{{Cite news |last=Hayre |first=Chris |date=April 23, 2020 |title=Chargers Select QB Justin Herbert at No. 6 overall |work=Chargers.com |url=https://www.chargers.com/news/justin-herbert-nfl-draft-quarterback-oregon |access-date=April 23, 2020}} On July 25, 2020, Herbert signed his four-year rookie contract, worth a fully guaranteed $26.6 million.{{Cite web |last=Schuster |first=Blake |date=July 25, 2020 |title=Report: Justin Herbert, Chargers Agree to 4-Year Contract Worth Around $26.6M |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2890512-report-justin-herbert-chargers-agree-to-4-year-contract-worth-around-266m |access-date=January 17, 2022 |website=Bleacher Report |language=en}} Herbert's jersey was listed as the 12th best selling jersey to start the season.{{Cite web |last=DeArdo |first=Bryan |date=May 11, 2020 |title=NFL jersey sales rankings: Tua Tagovailoa tops list, with Tom Brady's Buccaneers jerseys also in high demand |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-jersey-sales-rankings-tua-tagovailoa-tops-list-with-tom-bradys-buccaneers-jerseys-also-in-high-demand/ |access-date=May 11, 2020 |website=CBS Sports}} Herbert was named the backup quarterback behind starter Tyrod Taylor ahead of Week 1.{{Cite web |last=Phillips |first=Justin |date=September 8, 2020 |title=Justin Herbert Named Backup Quarterback For Los Angeles Chargers |url=https://autzenzoo.com/2020/09/08/justin-herbert-named-backup-quarterback-san-diego-chargers/ |access-date=September 16, 2021 |website=Autzen Zoo |language=en-US}}
On September 20, 2020, Herbert made his first NFL start in Week 2 against the Kansas City Chiefs, replacing Taylor, who was ruled inactive after the team's doctor accidentally punctured his lung.{{Cite web |last=Bergman |first=Jeremy |date=September 20, 2020 |title=Chargers' Justin Herbert starts at QB over injured Tyrod Taylor vs. Chiefs |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/chargers-justin-herbert-starts-at-qb-over-injured-tyrod-taylor-vs-chiefs |access-date=September 20, 2020 |website=NFL.com}} He finished with 311 passing yards, one touchdown, one interception, and one rushing score as the Chargers lost 23–20 in overtime.{{Cite web |last=Owens |first=Jason |date=September 20, 2020 |title=Chargers rookie QB Justin Herbert sizzles in surprise debut, falls just short of upsetting Chiefs |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/rookie-chargers-qb-justin-herbert-makes-surprise-start-vs-chiefs-203737207.html |access-date=September 21, 2020 |website=sports.yahoo.com}} He became only the third player in NFL history to pass for at least 300 yards and rush for a touchdown in his first career game.{{Cite web |last=Florio |first=Mike |authorlink=Mike Florio |date=September 22, 2020 |title=Justin Herbert makes history |url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2020/09/21/justin-herbert-makes-history/ |access-date=September 22, 2020 |website=ProFootballTalk}} During Week 4 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Herbert completed 20 passes out of 25 attempts for 290 yards, three touchdowns, and an interception as the Chargers lost 38–31.{{Cite web |last=Edwards |first=Josh |date=October 4, 2020 |title=Buccaneers vs. Chargers final score: Tom Brady rallies Tampa to win over rookie Justin Herbert |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/buccaneers-vs-chargers-score-live-updates-game-stats-highlights-tv-channel-streaming-info-for-week-4/live/ |access-date=October 6, 2020 |website=CBS Sports}} On October 8, 2020, Herbert was named the starting quarterback for the Chargers over Taylor going forward.{{Cite web |last=Patra |first=Kevin |date=October 8, 2020 |title=Chargers name Justin Herbert their starting quarterback going forward |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/chargers-name-justin-herbert-their-starting-quarterback-going-forward |access-date=October 11, 2020 |website=www.nfl.com}}{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Shelley |date=October 8, 2020 |title=Chargers rookie QB Herbert named the starter |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30071660/justin-herbert-named-los-angeles-chargers-starting-qb |access-date=October 11, 2020 |website=ESPN}}
In Week 5 against the New Orleans Saints on Monday Night Football, Herbert threw for 264 yards and four touchdowns during the 30–27 overtime loss.{{Cite web |title=Los Angeles Chargers at New Orleans Saints – October 12th, 2020 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202010120nor.htm |access-date=October 11, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference}} He became the first rookie in NFL history to throw for four touchdown passes on Monday Night Football.{{Cite web |last=Mickanen |first=Dylan |date=October 12, 2020 |title=Justin Herbert becomes first rookie to throw 4 TDs on Monday Night Football |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/northwest/oregon-ducks/justin-herbert-becomes-first-rookie-throw-4-tds-monday-night-football |access-date=October 18, 2020 |website=RSN |archive-date=January 10, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230110132730/https://www.nbcsports.com/northwest/oregon-ducks/justin-herbert-becomes-first-rookie-throw-4-tds-monday-night-football |url-status=dead }} Herbert was named Offensive Rookie of the Month after throwing 10 touchdowns to one interception in three starts with 901 passing yards and a 122.2 passer rating.{{Cite web |last=Gordon |first=Grant |date=October 29, 2020 |title=Buccaneers QB Tom Brady, Titans RB Derrick Henry among Players of the Month for October |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/buccaneers-qb-tom-brady-titans-rb-derrick-henry-among-players-of-the-month-for-o |access-date=September 16, 2021 |website=NFL.com}} He also became the first rookie quarterback in NFL history with multiple touchdowns in seven consecutive games.{{Cite web |last=Manzano |first=Gilbert |date=November 26, 2020 |title=Chargers QB Justin Herbert continues to cook rookie records |url=https://www.ocregister.com/2020/11/26/chargers-qb-justin-herbert-continues-to-cook-rookie-records |access-date=December 1, 2020 |website=Orange County Register}}
Herbert was named the Offensive Rookie of the Month for his performance in November.{{Cite web |last=Gordon |first=Grant |date=December 4, 2020 |title=Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes, Vikings RB Dalvin Cook lead Players of the Month |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/players-of-the-month-patrick-mahomes-dalvin-cook-tj-watt-cameron-jordan |access-date=December 6, 2020 |website=www.nfl.com}}
On December 27, 2020, Herbert threw his 28th passing touchdown of the season against the Denver Broncos, breaking the NFL record for most passing touchdowns by a rookie (previously held by Baker Mayfield) during the 19–16 win.{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Shelley |date=December 27, 2020 |title=Los Angeles Chargers' Justin Herbert sets rookie record for TD passes |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30607754/los-angeles-chargers-justin-herbert-sets-rookie-record-td-passes |access-date=December 27, 2020 |website=www.espn.com}} During the game, he also reached 4,000 yards passing for the season, becoming only the fourth rookie quarterback to achieve the feat.{{Cite web |last=Benjamin |first=Cody |date=December 12, 2021 |title=Chargers' Justin Herbert becomes first NFL player to accomplish this remarkable passing feat |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/chargers-justin-herbert-becomes-first-nfl-player-to-accomplish-this-remarkable-passing-feat/ |access-date=January 17, 2022 |website=CBS Sports |language=en}} He was named Rookie of the Year and Offensive Rookie of the Year by the Pro Football Writers of America.{{Cite web |date=January 19, 2021 |title=Chargers' Herbert PFWA Rookie and Offensive Rookie of the Year, Washington's Young Defensive Rookie of the Year; 2020 All-Rookie Team named |url=https://www.profootballwriters.org/2021/01/19/chargers-herbert-pfwa-rookie-and-offensive-rookie-of-the-year-washingtons-young-defensive-rookie-of-the-year-2020-all-rookie-team-named/ |access-date=January 19, 2021 |website=PFWA}} Herbert finished the 2020 season on a four-game winning streak with 4,336 yards passing, 31 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions.{{Cite web |title=Justin Herbert 2020 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HerbJu00/gamelog/2020/ |access-date=January 6, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He was named to the NFL All-Rookie Team.{{Cite web |title=2020 NFL All-Rookie Team |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/nfl-all-rookie-2020.htm |access-date=November 12, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He was ranked 56th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2021.{{Cite web |title=2021 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2021-nfl-top-100.htm |access-date=November 12, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
=2021=
{{See also|2021 Los Angeles Chargers season}}
File:Justin Herbert (51459803577).jpg, 2021]]
Herbert helped lead the Chargers to a 4–1 start, including a Week 3 30–24 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.{{Cite web |title=Los Angeles Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs – September 26th, 2021 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202109260kan.htm |access-date=January 17, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In Week 5, against the Cleveland Browns, Herbert had his best statistical game of the season. He had 398 passing yards, four passing touchdowns, and a rushing touchdown in a 47–42 shootout victory.{{Cite web |title=Cleveland Browns at Los Angeles Chargers – October 10th, 2021 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202110100sdg.htm |access-date=January 6, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In Week 9, Herbert had three total touchdowns while completing 32-of-38 passes for 356 yards, two touchdowns, a rushing touchdown, and no interceptions in a 27–24 win over the Philadelphia Eagles, earning American Football Conference (AFC) Offensive Player of the Week honors.{{Cite web |last=Gordon |first=Grant |date=November 10, 2021 |title=Chargers QB Justin Herbert, Falcons QB Matt Ryan lead Players of the Week |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/players-of-the-week-2021-week-9-justin-herbert-matt-ryan |access-date=November 12, 2022 |website=NFL.com}} Against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Week 11, Herbert had 382 passing yards, three touchdowns, and an interception in a 41–37 win.{{Cite web |title=Pittsburgh Steelers at Los Angeles Chargers – November 21st, 2021 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202111210sdg.htm |access-date=January 6, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
In a Week 13 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, Herbert had 317 passing yards, three passing touchdowns, and an interception in a 41–22 victory, earning him his second AFC Offensive Player of the Week berth of the season.{{Cite web |title=2021 NFL Week 13 Leaders & Scores |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2021/week_13.htm |access-date=January 6, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He followed that performance with 275 passing yards, three passing touchdowns, and no interceptions in Week 14 against the New York Giants, lifting the Chargers to a 37–21 victory, and an 8–5 record. He earned his second consecutive, and third overall, AFC Offensive Player of the Week honor for his performance.{{Cite web |last=Gordon |first=Grant |date=December 15, 2021 |title=Chargers QB Justin Herbert, 49ers TE George Kittle lead NFL Players of the Week |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/players-of-the-week-2021-week-14-justin-herbert-george-kittle |access-date=November 12, 2022 |website=NFL.com}}
In Week 15, playing against the Chiefs, Herbert surpassed Andrew Luck's record for the most passing yards in an NFL quarterback's first two seasons.{{Cite web |last=Polacek |first=Scott |date=December 17, 2021 |title=Chargers' Justin Herbert Sets NFL Record for Most Passing Yards in 1st 2 Seasons |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10021127-chargers-justin-herbert-sets-nfl-record-for-most-passing-yards-in-1st-2-seasons |access-date=December 17, 2021 |website=Bleacher Report}} Additionally, he surpassed Dan Marino's record for the most total touchdowns in an NFL quarterback's first two seasons.{{Cite tweet |number=1471694562297065473 |user=MySportsUpdate |title=#Chargers QB Justin Herbert has passed Dan Marino for the most total touchdowns (passing and rushing) by any player… |date=December 17, 2021}} In a Week 18 win or tie or go home situation against the Las Vegas Raiders, Herbert threw for 383 yards, three touchdowns, and an interception in the 35–32 overtime loss, eliminating the Chargers from the playoffs.{{Cite web |last1=Dubin |first1=Jared |last2=Benjamin |first2=Cody |date=January 10, 2022 |title=Raiders vs. Chargers score: Derek Carr edges Justin Herbert in OT thriller; Vegas claims postseason spot |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/raiders-vs-chargers-score-derek-carr-edges-justin-herbert-in-ot-thriller-vegas-claims-postseason-spot/live/ |access-date=January 11, 2022 |website=CBS Sports |language=en}}
In the 2021 season, Herbert set franchise records with 5,014 passing yards, 38 passing touchdowns, and 15 interceptions.{{Cite web |title=San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers Single-Season Passing Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sdg/single-season-passing.htm |access-date=January 17, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In addition, he had 63 carries for 302 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns, leading the Chargers to a 9–8 record and his first career Pro Bowl.{{Cite web |title=Justin Herbert 2021 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HerbJu00/gamelog/2021/ |access-date=January 17, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=2021 Los Angeles Chargers Statistics & Players |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sdg/2021.htm |access-date=January 17, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Herbert became the first quarterback in franchise history to throw for at least 5,000 yards in a single season.{{Cite web |title=NFL Passing Yards Single-Season Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/pass_yds_single_season.htm |access-date=January 17, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He was ranked 40th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2022.{{Cite web |title=2021 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2021-nfl-top-100.htm |access-date=November 12, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
=2022=
{{See also|2022 Los Angeles Chargers season}}
In Week 1 against the Las Vegas Raiders, Herbert threw for 279 yards and three touchdowns in the 24–19 win.{{Cite web |title=Las Vegas Raiders at Los Angeles Chargers – September 11th, 2022 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202209110sdg.htm |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference}} In Week 2 against the Kansas City Chiefs, Herbert threw for 334 yards and three touchdowns for the second consecutive game. In the fourth quarter, Herbert suffered a fracture to his rib cartilage.{{Cite web |last=Dajani |first=Jordan |date=September 16, 2022 |title=Chargers' Justin Herbert suffered fracture to rib cartilage in loss to Chiefs, considered day-to-day |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/chargers-justin-herbert-suffered-fracture-to-rib-cartilage-in-loss-to-chiefs-considered-day-to-day/ |access-date=December 4, 2022 |website=CBSSports.com |language=en}} Despite a late touchdown, the Chargers would go on to lose 27–24.{{Cite web |last=Gordon |first=Grant |date=September 16, 2022 |title=Chiefs seventh-round rookie Jaylen Watson's 'surreal' 99-yard pick-six keys Thursday night win |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/chiefs-7th-round-rookie-jaylen-watson-s-surreal-99-yard-pick-six-keys-thursday-n |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=NFL.com}} In Week 6 against the Denver Broncos, Herbert completed 37 of 57 passes for 238 yards, no touchdowns, and an interception in the 19–16 victory. His 57 passes were the most in a winning effort without a passing touchdown in NFL history.{{Cite web|title=Chargers' Justin Herbert: Attempts 57 passes|url=https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/football/news/chargers-justin-herbert-attempts-57-passes/amp/|access-date=June 29, 2023|website=cbssports.com|language=en}} Overall, Herbert passed for 4,739 yards, 25 touchdowns, and ten interceptions in 17 games in the 2022 season.{{Cite web |title=Justin Herbert 2022 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HerbJu00/gamelog/2022/ |access-date=March 22, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He set single-season franchise records for pass attempts and completions. The Chargers finished with a 10–7 record and earned a playoff berth.{{Cite web |title=2022 NFL Standings & Team Stats |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2022/index.htm |access-date=March 22, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
In his first playoff game, Herbert passed for 273 yards and a touchdown as the Chargers fell to the Jacksonville Jaguars 31–30 in the Wild Card Round.{{Cite web |title=Wild Card – Los Angeles Chargers at Jacksonville Jaguars – January 14th, 2023 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202301140jax.htm |access-date=March 22, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} The Chargers surrendered a 27–0 lead for the third-largest blown lead in NFL playoff history.{{Cite web |last=Kerr |first=Jeff |date=January 15, 2023 |title=Biggest comebacks in NFL history: Jaguars' playoff win over Chargers earns spot amongst largest rallies ever |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/biggest-comebacks-in-nfl-history-jaguars-playoff-win-over-chargers-earns-spot-amongst-largest-rallies-ever/ |access-date=March 22, 2023 |website=CBSSports.com |language=en}}
After the season, he was ranked 32nd by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2023.{{Cite web |title=2023 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2023-nfl-top-100.htm |access-date=September 15, 2024 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
=2023=
{{See also|2023 Los Angeles Chargers season}}
On April 28, 2023, the Chargers picked up the fifth-year option on Herbert's contract.{{Cite web |last=Alper |first=Josh |date=April 28, 2023 |title=Report: Chargers exercise Justin Herbert's fifth-year option |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/report-chargers-exercise-justin-herberts-fifth-year-option |access-date=July 28, 2023 |website=NBC Sports |language=en-US}} On July 25, he signed a five-year extension worth $262.5 million, which extends through the 2029 season. At the time of the signing, the deal made Herbert the highest-paid player in NFL history (surpassing the previous record set by Lamar Jackson just months earlier) and the highest-paid NFL quarterback based on average annual value at $52.5 million per season.{{Cite web |last=Edholm |first=Eric |date=July 25, 2023 |title=Justin Herbert, Chargers agree to five-year, $262.5 million extension |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/justin-herbert-chargers-agree-to-five-year-262-5-million-extension |access-date=July 28, 2023 |website=NFL.com}}{{Cite web |last=Thiry |first=Lindsey |date=July 25, 2023 |title=Sources: Bolts, Herbert agree to $262.5M deal |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38068747/sources-chargers-qb-justin-herbert-agree-5-year-262m-extension |access-date=July 28, 2023 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} However, this record deal would be surpassed by Joe Burrow's extension just two months later.{{Cite web |last=Kownack |first=Bobby |date=September 7, 2023 |title=QB Joe Burrow, Bengals agree to five-year, $275 million extension |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/qb-joe-burrow-bengals-agree-to-five-year-275-million-extension |access-date=September 8, 2023 |website=NFL.com}}
After starting the season 0–2, Herbert had a fourth-quarter comeback against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 3, resulting in a 28–24 win. This game also marked his first 400-yard passing performance in the NFL. In Week 14 against the Denver Broncos, Herbert suffered a broken index finger on his throwing hand in the second quarter and was ruled out for the remainder of the game.{{cite web |last1=Rhim |first1=Kris |title=Chargers' Justin Herbert having season-ending finger surgery |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39097619/source-justin-herbert-having-season-ending-finger-surgery |website=ESPN.com |date=December 12, 2023 |access-date=December 13, 2023}} On December 12, the Chargers announced Herbert would undergo surgery and was placed on injured reserve, ending his season.{{Cite web |last=Patra |first=Kevin |date=December 12, 2023 |title=Los Angeles Chargers QB Justin Herbert to miss rest of 2023 season following surgery on broken finger |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/los-angeles-chargers-qb-justin-herbert-to-miss-rest-of-2023-season-following-sur |access-date=December 13, 2023 |website=NFL.com}} He was ranked 75 by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2024.{{Cite web |title=2024 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2024-nfl-top-100.htm |access-date=September 15, 2024 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
=2024=
{{See also|2024 Los Angeles Chargers season}}
Herbert entered his fifth NFL season with his third different head coach, as Brandon Staley was replaced by Jim Harbaugh.{{cite news |title=What Jim Harbaugh's return to the NFL means for the Chargers |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39337522/what-jim-harbaugh-return-nfl-means-chargers |access-date=November 11, 2024 |work=ESPN |date=January 24, 2024}} Herbert began the season with a 90-plus passer rating in his first ten games, the longest streak of starts with a 90-plus passer rating by any quarterback to begin a season since 2018.{{cite news |last=Patra |first=Kevin |title=Chargers HC Jim Harbaugh dubs Justin Herbert : 'Beast Herbert. Half man, half beast' |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/chargers-hc-jim-harbaugh-dubs-justin-herbert-beast-herbert-half-man-half-beast |access-date=November 11, 2024 |work=NFL.com |date=November 11, 2024}} In Week 10 against the Tennessee Titans, Herbert passed David Carr for the most completions by a quarterback in their first five seasons.{{Cite news |date=November 11, 2024 |title=Justin Herbert has the most completions of any QB in his first five seasons |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/justin-herbert-most-completions-qb-130416699.html |access-date=November 11, 2024 |work=Yahoo! Sports}} From Weeks 2 to 14, Herbert recorded 357 consecutive pass attempts without an interception, the fifth-longest such streak in NFL history.{{cite news |last=Williams |first=Eric |title=Is Chargers QB Justin Herbert taking enough risks to create explosive plays? |url=https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/chargers-qb-justin-herbert-taking-enough-risks-create-explosive-plays |access-date=December 19, 2024 |work=Fox Sports |date=December 19, 2024}} In a 40–7 victory against the New England Patriots in Week 17, Herbert passed for 281 yards and three touchdowns to become the third player in NFL history with at least 3,000 passing yards and 20 touchdown passes in each of his first five seasons. The win also clinched a playoff berth for the Chargers, marking their second appearance in three seasons.{{cite news |last=Hightower |first=Kyle |title=Justin Herbert tosses 3 TDs, Chargers clinch a playoff spot with a 40-7 rout of Patriots |url=https://apnews.com/article/chargers-patriots-score-7da75f1c5f19b47a67861e64cef1c026 |access-date=December 28, 2024 |work=Associated Press |date=December 28, 2024}} He finished the regular season with 346 yards, two touchdowns, and no turnovers in a 34–20 win over the Raiders.{{cite news |last=Reedy |first=Joe |title=The Chargers are hitting their stride on offense going into the playoffs |url=https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/chargers-hitting-stride-offense-going-011831578.html |access-date=January 11, 2025 |work=Yahoo Sports |date=January 6, 2025}}
Herbert had an efficient year in his first season under Jim Harbaugh, finishing with 3,870 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, and just three interceptions, along with career highs in rushing yards.{{Cite web |title=Justin Herbert 2024 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HerbJu00/gamelog/2024/ |access-date=2025-01-21 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}} Herbert's 23:3 TD–INT ratio (7.67) ranks eighth all-time in NFL history among quarterbacks with at least 15 touchdown passes in a season. His numbers on play-action passes were among the best in the league, completing 74.7 percent for 1,617 yards with eight touchdowns and just two interceptions on such throws.{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Eric |title=Why Justin Herbert is Ready to Lead the Chargers Into the Playoffs |url=https://www.chargers.com/news/justin-herbert-playoff-record-texans |access-date=January 11, 2025 |work=Chargers.com |date=January 7, 2025}} Despite a productive regular season, Herbert had the worst game of his career in the Wild Card Round against the Houston Texans, posting a career-low 43.8% completion percentage, one touchdown, and a career-high four interceptions for a career-low passer rating of 40.9 as the Chargers lost 32–12.{{cite news |last1=Rhim |first1=Kris |title=Herbert (4 INTs) critical of play as Chargers' season ends |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43378121/herbert-4-ints-critical-play-chargers-season-ends |access-date=January 11, 2025 |work=ESPN |date=January 11, 2025}}
NFL career statistics
| class="wikitable mw-collapsible" |
| colspan="2"| Legend |
|---|
| style="background:#cfecec; width:3em;"|
| Led the league |
| style="width:3em;"| Bold
| Career best |
=Regular season=
| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;" | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| rowspan="2"| Year
! rowspan="2"| Team ! colspan="3"| Games ! colspan="12"| Passing ! colspan="5"| Rushing ! colspan="2"| Sacks ! colspan="2"| Fumbles | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| {{abbr|GP|Games played}} | {{abbr|GS|Games started}} | {{abbr|Record|Record as a starter}} | {{abbr|Cmp|Passes completed}} | {{abbr|Att|Passes attempted}} | {{abbr|Pct|Completion percentage}} | {{abbr|Yds|Passing yards}} | {{abbr|Y/A|Yards per passing attempt}} | {{abbr|Y/G|Passing yards per game}} | {{abbr|Lng|Longest pass completion}} | {{abbr|TD|Passing touchdowns}} | {{abbr|Int|Interceptions}} | {{abbr|TD%|Touchdown thrown percentage}} | {{abbr|Int%|Interception thrown percentage}} | {{abbr|Rtg|Passer rating}} | {{abbr|Att|Rushing attempts}} | {{abbr|Yds|Rushing yards}} | {{abbr|Y/A|Yards per rushing attempt}} | {{abbr|Lng|Longest rushing attempt}} | {{abbr|TD|Rushing touchdowns}} | {{abbr|Sck|Times sacked}} | {{abbr|SckY|Yards lost due to sacks}} | {{abbr|Fum|Fumbles}} | {{abbr|Lost|Fumbles lost}} |
| 2020 || LAC
| 15 || 15 || 6–9 || 396 || 595 || 66.6 || 4,336 || 7.3 || 289.1 || 72 || 31 || 10 || 5.2 || 1.7 || 98.3 || 55 || 234 || 4.3 || 31 || 5 || 32 || 218 || 8 || 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 || LAC
| 17 || 17 || 9–8 || 443 || 672 || 65.9 || 5,014 || 7.5 || 294.9 || 72 || 38|| 15 || 5.7 || 2.2 || 97.7 || 63 || 302 || 4.8 || 36 || 3 || 31 || 214 || 1 || 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 || LAC
| 17 || 17 || 10–7 || 477 || 699 || 68.2 || 4,739 || 6.8 || 278.8 || 55 || 25 || 10 || 3.6 || 1.4 || 93.2 || 54 || 147 || 2.7 || 23 || 0 || 38 || 206 || 8 || 3 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 || LAC
| 13 || 13 || 5–8 || 297 || 456 || 65.1 || 3,134 || 6.9 || 241.1 || 60 || 20 || 7 || 4.4 || 1.5 || 93.2 || 52 || 228 || 4.4 || 35 || 3 || 29 || 233 || 4 || 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 || LAC
| 17 || 17 || 11–6 || 332 || 504 || 65.9 || 3,870 || 7.7 || 227.6 || 66 || 23 || 3 || 4.6 || style="background:#cfecec;"| 0.6 || 101.7 || 69 || 306 || 4.4 || 41 || 2 || 41 || 244 || 6 || 2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| colspan="2"|[https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HerbJu00.htm Career] || 79 || 79 || 41–38 || 1,945 || 2,926 || 66.5 || 21,093 || 7.2 || 267.0 || 72 || 137 || 45 || 4.7 || 1.5 || 96.7 || 293 || 1,217 || 4.2 || 41 || 13 || 171 || 1,115 || 27 || 8 |
=Postseason=
| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;" | ||||||||||||||||||||
| rowspan="2"| Year
! rowspan="2"| Team ! colspan="3"| Games ! colspan="9"| Passing ! colspan="5"| Rushing ! colspan="2"| Sacks ! colspan="2"| Fumbles | ||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP | GS | Record | Cmp | Att | Pct | Yds | Avg | Lng | TD | Int | Rtg | Att | Yds | Avg | Lng | TD | Sck | SckY | Fum | Lost |
| 2022 || LAC
| 1 || 1 || 0–1 || 25 || 43 || 58.1 || 273 || 6.3 || 25 || 1 || 0 || 84.7 || 3 || 12 || 4.0 || 13 || 0 || 3 || 20 || 1 || 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 || LAC
| 1 || 1 || 0–1 || 14 || 32 || 43.8 || 242 || 7.6 || 86 || 1 || 4 || 40.9 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 4 || 31 || 0 || 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| colspan="2"|[https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HerbJu00.htm Career] || 2 || 2 || 0–2 || 39 || 75 || 52.0 || 515 || 6.9 || 86 || 2 || 4 || 60.7 || 3 || 12 || 4.0 || 13 || 0 || 7 || 51 || 1 || 0 |
NFL records
- Most passing yards in a quarterback's first two seasons (9,350){{Cite web |title=Most Passing Yards By A Qb In First 2 Seasons |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-passing-yards-by-a-qb-in-first-2-seasons |access-date=December 4, 2022 |website=StatMuse |language=en}}
- Most passing yards in a quarterback's first three seasons (14,089){{Cite web |last=Thiry |first=Lindsey |date=December 12, 2022 |title=Herbert sets passing mark for QB's 1st 3 seasons |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/35236729/chargers-justin-herbert-sets-passing-mark-first-3-seasons |access-date=December 15, 2022 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}
- Most passing yards in a quarterback's first four seasons (17,223){{cite news |last1=Miller |first1=Jeff |title=Even if Chargers trade No. 5 pick, Justin Herbert is sure to receive help in deep draft |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/chargers/story/2024-04-23/chargers-nfl-draft-2024-wide-receivers |access-date=January 11, 2025 |work=latimes.com |date=April 23, 2024}}
- Most passing yards in a quarterback's first five seasons (21,093){{cite news |last1=Reedy |first1=Joe |title=Chargers QB Justin Herbert looks to add playoff victory to list of accomplishments |url=https://apnews.com/article/la-chargers-justin-herbert-45e54aa69a9976766e5be43fdfd050f3 |access-date=January 11, 2025 |work=Associated Press |date=January 8, 2025}}
- Most completions in a quarterback's first five seasons (1,945)
- Most passing touchdowns by a rookie quarterback (31){{Cite web |last=Kolakowski |first=Donald |date=October 22, 2021 |title=From Rooks to Kings: The NFL All-Time Single-Season Rookie Records |url=https://live-the-analyst.pantheonsite.io/2021/10/from-rooks-to-kings-the-best-rookie-seasons-in-afl-nfl-history/ |access-date=September 16, 2022 |website=The Analyst |language=en}}
- Most total touchdowns by a rookie quarterback (36){{Cite web |title=Most Total Touchdowns By A Rookie Quarterback In A Season |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-total-touchdowns-by-a-rookie-quarterback-in-a-season |access-date=October 23, 2022 |website=StatMuse |language=en}}
- Most 300-yard passing games by a rookie quarterback (8){{Cite web |title=Most 300 Yard Passing Games By Rookie Qb One Season |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-300-yard-passing-games-by-rookie-qb-one-season |access-date=December 21, 2022 |website=StatMuse |language=en}}
- Most completions by a rookie quarterback (396){{Cite web |date=October 2, 2022 |title=NFL all-time QB season and career records |url=https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-all-time-qb-season-career-records/ |access-date=October 23, 2022 |website=Pro Football Network |language=en-US}}
- Most games with at least 3 touchdown passes by a rookie (6){{Cite web |title=Most Games With At Least 3 Touchdown Passes By A Rookie |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-games-with-at-least-3-touchdown-passes-by-a-rookie |access-date=December 4, 2022 |website=StatMuse |language=en}}
- Most total touchdowns in a quarterback's first two seasons (77){{Cite web |title=Most Total Touchdowns By A Quarterback In First Two Seasons |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-total-touchdowns-by-a-quarterback-in-first-two-seasons |access-date=December 4, 2022 |website=StatMuse |language=en}}
- First quarterback to record 30 touchdown passes in each of his first two seasons{{Cite web |last=Hayre |first=Chris |date=December 13, 2021 |title=10 Insights: Justin Herbert Makes More History in Win Over Giants |url=https://www.chargers.com/news/10-insights-justin-herbert-quarterback-history-win-giants |access-date=October 23, 2022 |website=www.chargers.com |language=en-US}}
- Most completions in first 50 NFL games: (1,316){{cite web | last=Plaschke | first=Bill | title=Plaschke: Justin Herbert shows why he's potentially the greatest young QB in NFL history | website=Los Angeles Times | date=2022-12-19 | url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/chargers/story/2022-12-18/44-seconds-chargers-justin-herbert-beat-titans | access-date=2025-01-21}}
- Most consecutive seasons of 4000 passing yards to begin a career: 3{{cite web | last=Reedy | first=Joe | title=Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert has found his voice as a leader heading into fourth season | website=AP News | date=September 6, 2023 | url=https://apnews.com/article/chargers-justin-herbert-dolphins-de4160a43f244c5981d13de619d8e730 | access-date=September 14, 2024}}
Personal life
Herbert's maternal grandfather, Rich Schwab, played receiver at the University of Oregon in the 1960s.{{Cite web |last=Aschoff |first=Edward |author-link=Edward Aschoff |date=September 21, 2018 |title=If you haven't seen Oregon QB Justin Herbert yet, you're missing out |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/24726591/oregon-ducks-justin-herbert-garnering-heisman-trophy-nfl-draft-buzz |access-date=December 1, 2020 |website=ESPN.com}} His paternal grandfather, Roger Herbert, was a biology teacher at Sheldon High School and fueled Herbert’s interest in science.{{Cite web |last=Thamel |first=Pete |date=August 19, 2019 |title=Here's the surprising reason why top NFL prospect Justin Herbert returned to school |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/surprising-reason-why-top-nfl-pick-justin-herbert-returned-to-school-195739489.html |access-date=February 20, 2024 |website=Yahoo! Sports |language=en-US}} His father, Mark Herbert, played football and ran track at the University of Montana.{{Cite web |last=Nuanez |first=Colter |date=October 14, 2017 |title=THE STUDENT: Herbert exemplifies college athletics – Skyline Sports |url=https://skylinesportsmt.com/the-student-herbert-exemplifies-college-athletics/ |access-date=May 27, 2022 |website=Skyline Sports |language=en-US}} Herbert was a San Diego Chargers fan growing up.{{Cite web |last=Hirschorn |first=Jason B. |date=May 1, 2020 |title=Chargers QB Justin Herbert Predicted NFL Career at Age 9 |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/chargers/news/justin-herbert-chargers-predicts-nfl-career-age-9 |access-date=December 18, 2020 |publisher=Sports Illustrated}} Herbert's younger brother, Patrick, also attends Oregon as a tight end for the Ducks.{{Cite web |title=Patrick Herbert – Football |url=https://goducks.com/sports/football/roster/patrick-herbert/10054 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200908161708/https://goducks.com/sports/football/roster/patrick-herbert/10054 |archive-date=September 8, 2020 |access-date=June 12, 2020 |website=University of Oregon Athletics}} His older brother, Mitchell, played wide receiver at Montana State University.{{Cite web |title=Mitchell Herbert – Football |url=https://msubobcats.com/sports/football/roster/mitchell-herbert/3618 |access-date=October 29, 2023 |website=Montana State University Athletics |language=en}}
References
{{reflist}}
External links
{{Commons category}}
{{footballstats|nfl=justin-herbert|yahoo=32676|pfr=H/HerbJu00|espn=4038941}}
- [https://www.chargers.com/team/players-roster/justin-herbert/ Los Angeles Chargers bio]
- [https://goducks.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=8471 Oregon Ducks bio]
{{Los Angeles Chargers roster navbox}}
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Category:American Conference Pro Bowl players
Category:American football quarterbacks
Category:Los Angeles Chargers players
Category:NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year winners
Category:Oregon Ducks football players