Chargers News: Expert Unsure if Justin Herbert Has Matched Rookie Year Hype
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Let's be honest here... there isn't a whole lot of negatives you can throw Justin Herbert's way but the ammunition that is available is quite strong. Before we dive into the obvious argument that he has not excelled in the postseason yet, we must look at the situation he will be entering in 2023.
Herbert and the Los Angeles Chargers have made it clear that money is at the bottom of their priorities right now when it comes to their partnership and that's how it should be. When you have a player like him who has the chance to be generational and a potential face of the NFL, make sure he knows he'll be paid and move on.
Next up, they got rid Tom Lombardi, whose play calling was beyond questionable, and welcomed in Kellen Moore. LA's offense will certainly be thriving now and all eyes will be on this duo to see just how much better Herbert performs in 2023 with an OC that truly understands his versatility.
Many have looked towards the style that Herbert played with back in Oregon as a guide to how he'll play in the new season.
However, despite Lombardi, he has also had some elite passing options his first three years of his career along with an elite RB in Austin Ekeler but has zero playoff wins to show for it. The blame for their 2022 playoff meltdown largely went to the team as a whole but after Herbert gets paid, the expectations will skyrocket.
And experts from Pro Football Focus are already setting these expectations.
“This is a big year for Herbert to justify the hype that has surrounded him since his phenomenal rookie season. We have seen glimpses of what he is capable of, but he passed for just 6.8 yards per attempt last season and finished eighth in PFF passing grade. Kellen Moore’s arrival as the Chargers’ offensive coordinator could be the key that fully unlocks Herbert, and if he is, this is where Herbert belongs.’'
(Via Pro Football Focus)
It will be quite the year at SoFi Stadium!
