AFC West positional rankings: Patrick Mahomes anchors quarterbacks list
By Grant Tuttle
2. Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers
Justin Herbert got an opportunity to play ahead of time when Tyrod Taylor went down with injury. Needless to say, he made the most of that opportunity. While many were lukewarm about his potential in the NFL during last year’s draft process, Herbert proved that he might just be the best quarterback out of the 2020 draft class.
After getting some experience under his belt last season, Herbert is getting a new start. With new head coach Brandon Staley brought in to coach up the Charger defense and offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi to take the offensive reigns, Herbert finds himself in good hands. Lombardi has learned under Sean Payton in New Orleans and is the grandson of the late Vince Lombardi. The Chargers also added Jared Cook to replace Hunter Henry at tight end. In the draft, Los Angeles also added tackle Rashawn Slater in the first round of the draft. Many believe him to have been the best pass-blocker in the draft. Expect Slater to provide good protection in year one.
Herbert will likely take a step forward this season. With Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, and Jared Cook as top receivers, Herbert will most likely look like the next best passer behind Mahomes in the AFC West. After drafting a top-notch bookend tackle to likely play for the next decade, Herbert should have more time to throw than last season as well.
Last Season:
Passing: 396 completions on 595 attempts, 4336 yards, 31 touchdowns, 10 interceptions
Rushing: 55 rushes for 234 yards and 5 touchdowns
2021-2022 prediction:
Passing: 403 completions on 616 attempts, 4692 yards, 36 touchdowns, 11 interceptions
Rushing: 42 rushes for 192 yards and 3 touchdowns