Chargers News: Jim Harbaugh Gushes About Justin Herbert's Talent as a Football Player
The Los Angeles Chargers appear to have a great head coach-quarterback duo in Jim Harbaugh and Justin Herbert. When the Chargers officially announced Harbaugh as their next coach, one of the most exciting parts would be the opportunity to pair Harbaugh and Herbert together.
Harbaugh could not sound more excited to work with Herbert, whom he has gushed about multiple times since becoming the new Chargers head coach. In a recent interview, Harbaugh delivered high praise for the talented athlete and skills Herbert could excel at as a football player, even some beyond playing quarterback.
"Justin Herbert, there's no style of football that he wouldn't excel at," Harbaugh said on the Pat McAfee Show. "If he was just going to be a running quarterback he could be that. Drop back, pocket passer, he's got the potential to be the absolute best at that. He could probably go play tight end and be a Pro Bowl tight end ... there's no question, he could be your punter, your kicker, he could a tremendous edge rusher."
Harbaugh has worked with some quality quarterbacks in the past -- like Andrew Luck -- which makes this praise for Herbert special. The six-foot-six, 236-pound Herbert is certainly one of the more physically impressive quarterbacks in the league. Beyond these traits, Herbert has an incredible arm and can sling certain passes and deep throws that few others can.
Herbert is also tough, which would lend him well if he did play as a tight end or edge rusher. Herbert has shown this toughness since his first career start back in Week 2 of 2020 when he bounced up from a huge hit from linebacker Damian Wilson.
All in all, the combination of Herbert's talent and Harbaugh's belief in the quarterback makes this upcoming duo and season even more exciting. Surely, Harbaugh and the new Chargers' staff will take advantage of ways to utilize and maximize the talents of Herbert, who is already a Pro Bowl and record-setting passer.
