The Los Angeles Chargers are failing Justin Herbert and could jeopardize his career if nothing changes
The Los Angeles. Chargers have allowed Justin Herbert to be hit more than any other quarterback in the NFL since he has entered the league,
Since Justin Herbert entered the NFL in 2020, he’s been the bright spot for a Los Angeles Chargers franchise that has struggled to find consistency. But despite his elite arm talent, toughness, and leadership, the organization continues to fail him in one glaring area – protection.
According to Chargers beat writer Daniel Popper, Herbert has been hit 525 times since his rookie season – the most of any quarterback in the NFL over that span. The next closest player, Russell Wilson, has been hit just over 490 times. That’s not only a staggering number but also an indictment of how poorly the Chargers have protected one of the league’s premier talents. To put it in context, Andrew Luck was hit 580 times in his six NFL seasons. Justin Herbert is on pace to be hit 625 times through his first six NFL seasons.
It is even more frustrating that Los Angeles has tried to invest in Herbert’s protection. The team spent a first-round pick on Rashawn Slater in 2021, who quickly became one of the best young left tackles in football. Then, in 2024, they doubled down, drafting Joe Alt fifth overall to solidify the opposite side of the line. But both of those investments are currently on the sideline with injuries – a recurring theme for a Chargers team that can’t seem to keep its offensive front healthy.
Without Slater and Alt, Los Angeles’s offensive line depth has been exposed. Herbert continues absorbing unnecessary hits, often extending plays under duress or delivering throws while taking punishment. Despite the constant pressure, it’s a testament to his toughness that he’s remained one of the NFL’s most productive quarterbacks.
The Chargers’ offensive identity under Jim Harbaugh is supposed to be built on physicality and protection, but that has yet to materialize through the first month of the season. If Los Angeles hopes to make a legitimate playoff push—or protect its franchise cornerstone long-term—it must prioritize not just investing in offensive line talent but ensuring that talent stays healthy and cohesive.
Herbert has proven he can win games. The question is whether the Chargers can finally provide the protection he deserves.
