Against the Raiders in Week 1, Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert continued to play the game and his position at the highest level. In another brilliant performance, Herbert finished with 26 completions on 34 attempts (76.5%) for 279 yards, 3 touchdowns, and no turnovers while averaging 8.2 yards per attempt.
It’s not just his production, which is evident, but it’s his ball-security fundamentals in and out of the pocket, the unmatched precision of his footwork, his quick decision-making ability, arm talent, accuracy and his calmness during the chaos of the game that makes Herbert one of the best in the NFL at his position.
He is unphased by pressure in the pocket and has the athleticism to escape right or left with his head up while making explosive and accurate throws to either side of the field.
Herbert shows the inherent ability to feel pressure, be unfazed by it and slide to find a quiet launch point to deliver the ball or exit the pocket left or right and explosively and accurately deliver passes on or off balance.
His performance to start the season is certainly not unexpected. This is the first glimpse of Herbert’s second year with offensive coordinator (and former Saints QB coach) Joe Lombardi and QB coach Shane Day. Both assistants have done a tremendous job training him.
Many well-educated football people have said many great things about Herbert during the past two years. Sunday’s tape continues to validate all of it.
