Going into the NFL playoffs, Justin Herbert has gone from being viewed as overrated to a tough, poised QB running for his life behind a decimated offensive line. While he's at it, he's looking to add playoff performer to his resume too.
By sitting out week 18, Justin Herbert will fall 66 yards short of Peyton Manning's record for most passing yards after six seasons. Record aside, he's never been more relevant or closer to a deep playoff run.
His arm-strength, touch, and measurables always jumped off the page. But he seemed held back by coaches that weren't Jim Harbaugh and untimely mistakes that could be blamed on how early in his career he was. Now, after a second year with Harbaugh in command, the former Oregon QB seems to be reaping the rewards.
He always passed the eye-test. But it always seemed he was unfairly labeled overrated. It seems this year the first label that comes to mind is "tough", as he's guided his team to the postseason and a sweep of the Chiefs behind a patchwork offensive line that has him sacked more than anyone else. Overcoming a broken left hand along the way. Herbert has also scrambled more than ever, if nothing else, because of the line he's playing behind with Slater lost for the year, among other key injuries.
Jim Harbaugh always seems like he's good for ten wins and improved QB play as a former player at the position. Harbaugh has previously led his team to being one throw away at the Super Bowl and conference championship appearances as well. While there are other contenders and juggernauts out there in the AFC, the beauty of the one-and-done format of the playoffs is that you just have to get hot and stay relatively healthy, even as a Cinderella team starting as a wildcard.
Going into week 18, Herbert is also tied for 5th best in touchdown passes, has his best completion percentage since 2022, although he's had better passer ratings. It's postseason time and time to throw out the numbers, and the eye-test, and everything else, and just will your team to a deep playoff run.
With his veteran Keenan Allen back, Derwin James in his prime, and the best coach of his pro career, look for Herbert to make a push to win his first postseason game. The young man has the arm-talent and poise to go on a run from there. From overrated to tough, let's see if he can add playoff performer as the next part of his development and narrative, and make some noise in the AFC.
I'm sure he'll trade the 6-year passing yard record and all the early-career accolades for that.