Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert completed his 2025 season under circumstances that tested both his skill and durability. Despite numerous injuries across the roster, Herbert managed to deliver a strong performance, completing 66.4 percent of his passes for 3,727 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions in 16 games. Additionally, he achieved a career-best 498 rushing yards with two rushing touchdowns, highlighting his dual-threat capability. This steady play helped the Chargers secure an 11-6 record and a playoff appearance, marking their second straight postseason berth.
Recognized Among the NFL’s Top Quarterbacks in 2025
Justin Herbert earned significant recognition for his efforts during the 2025 season, culminating in his second career Pro Bowl selection. NFL analyst Nick Shook ranked Herbert fifth overall among quarterbacks based on a comprehensive evaluation of his regular season and playoff performance. Shook emphasized the adversity Herbert overcame, including the loss of key offensive linemen Rashawn Slater for the entire year and Joe Alt for much of it, along with extended absences from primary running backs Najee Harris and Omarion Hampton.
“Justin Herbert deserves a medal for the courage required to get these Chargers to the playoffs. He lost one starting tackle (Rashawn Slater) for the entire season and another for a significant portion of it (Joe Alt) and played a significant chunk of time without one or both of his top two running backs (Najee Harris and Omarion Hampton). He put the Chargers on his back anyway, finishing as both the leading passer and rusher in some games while carrying them to an 11-6 finish and a return trip to the playoffs. Oh, he did much of this with a broken hand, too. Hopefully, the Chargers can stay healthy up front and take some of the responsibility off his shoulders next season.” – Nick Shook, NFL Analyst
Herbert’s perseverance stands out particularly given he played through a broken hand and faced a decimated offensive line, which allowed a career-high 54 sacks. Maintaining effective production under these conditions reflects both his toughness and leadership on the field, signaling his value as a franchise cornerstone.
Offseason Adjustments Aim to Elevate Chargers’ Offense in 2026
Looking ahead to 2026, the Chargers are taking aggressive steps to enhance their offensive execution and support Justin Herbert’s growth. They replaced offensive coordinator Greg Roman with Mike McDaniel, the former Miami Dolphins head coach known for his inventive offensive strategies despite mixed results in his previous role. Additionally, Adam Gase, a former head coach himself, joined the staff as a passing game specialist to refine the aerial attack.
These coaching additions are intended to optimize the Chargers’ offensive system, creating better opportunities for Herbert to thrive. An emphasis on improving the offensive line’s health and stability is crucial, especially with Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt set to return at tackle. Their presence, combined with the emergence of Omarion Hampton as a premier running back, is expected to alleviate pressure on Herbert by strengthening both the run game and pass protection.
This strategic focus on bolstering key positions could transform the Chargers into one of the NFL’s top offensive units, making them a legitimate contender capable of winning any game. Herbert’s 2025 season laid the groundwork, but 2026 may be the year when the team’s potential fully materializes if injuries can be minimized and coaching upgrades yield results.
.@TheNickShook ranks all 63 starting quarterbacks from 2025 season, from Matthew Stafford to Max Brosmerhttps://t.co/y91cCeMMzp pic.twitter.com/kg2QBjw6Pb
— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) February 12, 2026
