In a significant shift that turned the page on the Philip Rivers era, the Los Angeles Chargers set their sights on a new quarterback in 2020. With Rivers joining the Indianapolis Colts after a storied career with the Chargers, the team was in the market for fresh talent. They found their answer in Justin Herbert, a promising young quarterback from Oregon, selected with the No. 6 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.
At 6’6” and 236 lbs, Herbert brought an impressive physical presence combined with a powerful arm and mobility that made him a standout at Oregon. His college career was marked by significant achievements, including winning the MVP of the 2020 Rose Bowl, cementing his reputation as one of the top prospects in the draft.
Stepping Up to the Challenge
From the moment his draft selection was announced, Herbert was clear about his intentions and dedication. “I’m going to do everything I can to be the best quarterback I can be. If I’m the guy, that’s great. I love playing football, and I want to be the guy. But if I have to sit back and learn, I’m going to do everything I can to become the quarterback that I need to be,” Herbert declared during an April 2020 media appearance.
This determination was evident as he prepared to compete with then-Chargers quarterback Tyrod Taylor for the starting position. Herbert embraced the competition, recognizing the benefits of pushing each other towards excellence. “Competition’s great for everyone. He’s going to push me and I’m going to push him,” Herbert explained to The MMQB’s Albert Breer. He stressed the importance of teamwork and professional growth, a mindset that would soon pay dividends.
A Rookie Season to Remember
The unexpected twist in Herbert’s rookie year came when Taylor sustained an injury before their Week 2 game, catapulting Herbert into the starting role sooner than anticipated. He seized this opportunity and delivered a performance that exceeded expectations.
Herbert’s rookie season was nothing short of spectacular. He threw for 4,336 yards, completed 66.6% of his passes, and tossed 31 touchdowns, which not only earned him the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award but also secured his place in the Chargers’ record books for most passing yards and touchdowns in a season. His ability to lead the team to victories, including four consecutive wins to close the season, underscored his readiness and capability as a leading NFL quarterback.
Continuing to Break Records
Building on his rookie success, Herbert continued to excel in 2021, earning a Pro Bowl selection and further establishing himself as one of the premier quarterbacks in the league. His dedication and performance have made him a cornerstone for the Chargers as they look to build a championship-contending team.
Herbert’s journey from a highly-touted draft pick to a record-setting leader reflects his commitment to his initial promise: to do everything within his power to excel on the football field. For Chargers fans and football enthusiasts alike, Justin Herbert represents not just a new chapter for the team but a beacon of hope and excitement for future seasons.
I am a writer with a passion for technology and gaming. I write about a variety of subjects, including Esports, Games, Shows, and Sports. I create engaging and informative content for Hiptoro.