Can Chargers QB Justin Herbert Recover?

It is getting harder to ignore the struggles of Justin Herbert. The Los Angeles Chargers quarterback has not looked like himself this season and after another disappointing performance against the Los Angeles Rams, questions are beginning to surface about whether he can turn things around. Herbert has been one of the most talented quarterbacks in the NFL for several years, but the 2026 season has been a major disappointment so far.

Through the first eight games, Herbert has thrown for 1,398 yards, five touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Those numbers are nowhere near what Chargers fans have come to expect from their franchise quarterback. Even more concerning is how frequently the turnovers have become a problem. Herbert has thrown at least one interception in every game this season and has struggled to consistently get the offense moving.

However, it would be unfair to put all of the blame on Herbert. The Chargers have dealt with another frustrating season of offensive line injuries. Tyler Biadasz was lost for the season during training camp, Rashawn Slater is on injured reserve and Joe Alt has also missed time. Herbert has faced more pressure than any quarterback in the league, making it difficult for him to get comfortable in the pocket.

That does not completely excuse the mistakes, though. Herbert has to do a better job of protecting the football and recognizing when a play is simply not there. Too many times this season, he has tried to force something that ultimately puts the Chargers in a worse position. The team cannot afford to keep giving opponents extra opportunities, especially when the offense is already struggling to score points.

The biggest question moving forward is whether offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel can find a way to get Herbert back on track. There needs to be more creativity in the play calling and a greater emphasis on getting the football out quickly. The Chargers cannot continue asking Herbert to make difficult throws while playing behind an offensive line that has struggled to stay healthy. Establishing a consistent running game and giving Herbert easier opportunities should be priorities coming out of the bye week.

There is still plenty of talent on this roster, and Herbert is certainly capable of playing much better football. He has shown throughout his career that he can make throws that very few quarterbacks in the NFL can make. One difficult stretch should not erase everything he has accomplished, but the Chargers need to see some improvement sooner rather than later.

At some point, the excuses have to stop. Injuries to the offensive line are a legitimate problem, but Herbert still needs to take better care of the football and find ways to lead this offense. The Chargers need their franchise quarterback to be the reason they win games, not another reason they find themselves falling behind.

Can Herbert recover from this disappointing start? Absolutely. But it is going to take better decision-making, improved protection and a much more consistent offensive approach. The bye week gives the Chargers an opportunity to regroup. Now it is up to Herbert and McDaniel to show that this season can still be turned around.