Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert hasn’t looked comfortable through three weeks of the NFL season.
Former Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson explained why Herbert has struggled to acclimate to the new scheme under offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel this season.
“It’s interesting watching Justin Herbert. I don’t feel like he’s comfortable yet,” Wilson said. “They’re sitting at 0-3, first of all, that’s a problem. That’s a worry.
“Second of all, I don’t feel like their best player in Justin Herbert feels completely confident yet in the system. And he’s learning it. You think about what Mike [McDaniel] did in Miami, he had Tua, on time, quick play action, ball out before he even looks up. He had these fast receivers in Tyreek Hill, constant motions.
“And that’s not really how Justin Herbert plays. I think that that transition is going to take a few more weeks. But are they gonna have enough time for Justin Herbert to do that?”
McDaniel’s scheme is extremely complex and forces the quarterback to make quick adjustments in regards to timing, footwork and decision-making. Herbert has never been in a system that demands much even before the snap.
The result? Herbert has performed like a below-average quarterback to start the season.
The 28-year-old is averaging 209 yards per game while completing just 59.1% of his passes. He’s thrown three touchdowns and been intercepted four times.
Because of Herbert’s difficulties in acclimating to the offense, the rest of the unit has followed suit in underperforming. The Chargers have no margin for error after starting the season 0-3 with their schedule only getting harder in the coming weeks.
Herbert will have to turn a corner soon or the Chargers’ season may soon be over.
