Justin Herbert is set to make his preseason debut for the Los Angeles Chargers against the Los Angeles Rams this Saturday, marking a significant milestone in his preparation for the upcoming NFL season.
Why it matters: Herbert's performance during the preseason could be crucial for both his development and the Chargers' overall success as they aim to improve upon last season.
Preseason snaps are essential for starters to build chemistry and rhythm, particularly for a team with high expectations.
Coach Jim Harbaugh emphasized the importance of these early plays, stating, "Our guys want to play. They want the first series of the season not to be the first series of the season."
What’s new: This will be Herbert's first on-field action in a preseason game since entering the league, after missing out due to various circumstances over the past two years.
In his rookie year, he was sidelined by COVID-19 protocols, while last year, he dealt with a plantar fascia injury in his right foot that limited his participation.
Yes, but: While Herbert takes the field, several key players will be absent, which raises questions about the team's preparedness heading into the regular season.
Notably missing from the lineup will be safety Derwin James Jr. and linebacker Khalil Mack, whose experience and leadership will be missed even in a preseason setting.
Additionally, projected starter Mekhi Becton has been unable to practice since late July due to an undisclosed injury, further complicating the offensive line's stability.
By the numbers: Last season, Herbert threw for 4,739 yards and 25 touchdowns, showcasing why he is regarded as one of the most promising quarterbacks in the league.
However, the Chargers' offensive line woes could hinder his ability to replicate or exceed those numbers if injuries persist.
What to watch: The effectiveness of the Chargers' offensive line will be under scrutiny during Herbert's debut.
With Rashawn Slater out for the season due to a patellar tear, the pressure will be on Herbert to navigate a potentially volatile pocket against a fierce Rams defense.
Observing how well the remaining linemen perform together, particularly in protecting Herbert, will be critical.
The bottom line: As the Chargers look to solidify their roster ahead of the season, Herbert's return to action is a welcome sight.
The coaching staff is keenly aware of the stakes involved in these preseason games, hoping to cultivate a cohesive unit that can compete for a playoff spot this year.
Justin Herbert is set to make his preseason debut for the Los Angeles Chargers against the Los Angeles Rams this Saturday, marking a significant milestone in his preparation for the upcoming NFL season.
Why it matters: Herbert's performance during the preseason could be crucial for both his development and the Chargers' overall success as they aim to improve upon last season.
Preseason snaps are essential for starters to build chemistry and rhythm, particularly for a team with high expectations.
Coach Jim Harbaugh emphasized the importance of these early plays, stating, "Our guys want to play. They want the first series of the season not to be the first series of the season."
What’s new: This will be Herbert's first on-field action in a preseason game since entering the league, after missing out due to various circumstances over the past two years.
In his rookie year, he was sidelined by COVID-19 protocols, while last year, he dealt with a plantar fascia injury in his right foot that limited his participation.
Yes, but: While Herbert takes the field, several key players will be absent, which raises questions about the team's preparedness heading into the regular season.
Notably missing from the lineup will be safety Derwin James Jr. and linebacker Khalil Mack, whose experience and leadership will be missed even in a preseason setting.
Additionally, projected starter Mekhi Becton has been unable to practice since late July due to an undisclosed injury, further complicating the offensive line's stability.
By the numbers: Last season, Herbert threw for 4,739 yards and 25 touchdowns, showcasing why he is regarded as one of the most promising quarterbacks in the league.
However, the Chargers' offensive line woes could hinder his ability to replicate or exceed those numbers if injuries persist.
What to watch: The effectiveness of the Chargers' offensive line will be under scrutiny during Herbert's debut.
With Rashawn Slater out for the season due to a patellar tear, the pressure will be on Herbert to navigate a potentially volatile pocket against a fierce Rams defense.
Observing how well the remaining linemen perform together, particularly in protecting Herbert, will be critical.
The bottom line: As the Chargers look to solidify their roster ahead of the season, Herbert's return to action is a welcome sight.
The coaching staff is keenly aware of the stakes involved in these preseason games, hoping to cultivate a cohesive unit that can compete for a playoff spot this year.
