TEMPE, ARIZONA – NOVEMBER 23: Quarterback Justin Herbert #10 of the Oregon Ducks warms up before the NCAAF game against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Sun Devil Stadium on November 23, 2019 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
The Los Angeles Chargers drafted the heir apparent to Philip Rivers in Justin Herbert. His selection will define the Chargers’ 2020 NFL Draft grade.
6
Justin Herbert
QB Oregon
Herbert is the quarterback of both the present and future for the Chargers. Picking at No. 6, general manager Tom Telesco took a major swing by taking Herbert, who many believe is both talented and yet raw.
There was hope in Los Angeles for Tua Tagovailoa, but the former Alabama star was scooped up the pick before by the Miami Dolphins. In Herbert, the Chargers are getting a big kid with a strong arm who attempts to force the ball, sometimes with poor results.
However, the upside is evident. Nobody questions his football IQ or work ethic, so if Herbert listens to coaches, there’s reason to believe he turns into a quality starter. Additionally, he’s going to be surrounded by receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, tight end Hunter Henry and Austin Ekeler in the backfield.
As a senior with Oregon in 2019, Herbert threw for 3,471 yards with 32 touchdowns and six interceptions. The size and arm strength are going to be the enduring traits for Herbert, and perhaps ones which propel him to stardom in the league.
If nothing else, Herbert is surrounded by a quality team. The Chargers rebuilt their offensive line in the offseason, adding Pro Bowl guard Trai Turner and right tackle Bryan Bulaga. This has long been a problem for Los Angeles, but one it suddenly appears willing to invest into.
It’s a great situation for a rookie quarterback to enter.