Justin Herbert’s Leadership Evolution: How the Chargers’ QB is Taking Command in 2024

Justin Herbert’s Leadership Evolution: How the Chargers’ QB is Taking Command in 2024

Months before Morgan Fox signed with the Los Angeles Chargers in May of 2022, he was already captivated by quarterback Justin Herbert. Fox vividly recalls watching Herbert on TV during the Chargers’ dramatic Week 18 showdown against the Raiders at the end of the 2021 season. With a playoff berth on the line, Herbert’s ability to convert on deep fourth and third downs left Fox in awe.

But admiration didn’t stop Fox from testing Herbert’s grit when they became teammates. During a practice session, Fox knocked a football out of Herbert’s hands, curious to see how the quarterback would react. Herbert’s response? Picking up the ball, launching it at Fox, and unleashing a string of expletives. “That’s what I wanted to see,” Fox said with a grin. “He’s always had that tone. You’ve just got to talk to him.”

Critics Question Herbert’s Leadership

Herbert’s personality has long been a topic of debate. Critics have questioned whether the 2020 first-round pick has the charisma and assertiveness to lead an NFL locker room. Now in his fifth season, Herbert’s teammates say he’s grown into a more vocal leader, thanks in part to time in the league and the influence of head coach Jim Harbaugh.

With the Chargers sitting at 7-3—marking their best start since 2018—Herbert is leading what could be a legitimate contender for the first time in his career. At 26 years old, he’s playing some of the best football of his life, exuding a confidence that has energized the entire organization.

“I feel like everybody’s having more fun this year. We’ve got a good culture going, and Justin’s definitely the leader of that,” said offensive tackle Rashawn Slater. “Whenever we see him have that energy, it’s very infectious. As long as I’ve known Justin, he’s been the ultimate competitor, but I love that he’s been a little more animated.”

From Oregon to the NFL Spotlight

Herbert’s journey to NFL stardom began at the University of Oregon, where he emerged as one of the nation’s top players during his final two seasons. In his senior year, he threw for 3,471 yards, 32 touchdowns, and just six interceptions, capping it off with a Rose Bowl victory over Wisconsin.

Despite his on-field success, questions about Herbert’s reserved personality followed him into the 2020 NFL Draft. Former Raiders general manager Mike Mayock noted concerns about Herbert’s ability to handle the spotlight, given his quiet demeanor and limited experience outside his hometown of Eugene, Oregon.

When asked before the draft if he was ready to play in the NFL, Herbert’s cautious response—“I feel confident with my abilities, but I’ve never played in the NFL before, and so to give you an answer whether I could play right now, I don’t think that’d be in my best interest”—drew criticism. Then-ESPN analyst Emmanuel Acho even suggested Herbert could be one of the “biggest mistakes of the draft.”

Ultimately, the Chargers selected Herbert with the sixth overall pick, making him the third quarterback taken in the draft. Thrust into the starting role in Week 2 after a freak injury to Tyrod Taylor, Herbert immediately impressed, throwing for 311 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in his debut against the Chiefs. Offensive tackle Trey Pipkins III recalls Herbert’s toughness during that game, particularly when he trucked Chiefs linebacker Damien Wilson on a scramble. “From the jump, you could tell he had that leadership quality,” Pipkins said.

Herbert’s Competitive Edge

Fast forward to Week 10 of the 2024 season, and Herbert’s competitive fire is on full display. During a game against the Tennessee Titans, Herbert broke a sack attempt by linebacker Ali Gaye and ran for a first down. After taking a hard hit from linebacker Kenneth Murray Jr., Herbert celebrated from the ground by signaling a first down. “He’s the ultimate competitor. He feels no pain,” Slater said with a smile.

Herbert’s fiery celebrations have become a hallmark of the Chargers’ current four-game winning streak. Whether it’s nodding cartoonishly after a touchdown pass to rookie wide receiver Ladd McConkey or chest-bumping teammates, Herbert’s “lighthearted confidence” is infectious.

Harbaugh’s Influence

Head coach Jim Harbaugh has played a significant role in Herbert’s evolution as a leader. From giving Herbert a gold practice jersey to protect him during training camp to encouraging him to be more vocal, Harbaugh has pushed Herbert out of his comfort zone. “It’s not really my style to want that,” Herbert admitted. “But the more you go through it, it bothers you less and less, and I think it’s cool to have a coach support you like that.”

Chargers Surprising the NFL

Despite losing key players like Keenan Allen and Austin Ekeler in the offseason, the Chargers have defied expectations. After a rocky 2-2 start, Herbert has been on fire, averaging 268 passing yards per game over the last six weeks—fourth most in the NFL. His mastery of play-action has been a game-changer, with 703 yards and three touchdowns using the strategy since Week 6.

As the Chargers prepare for their “Monday Night Football” clash with the Baltimore Ravens, Herbert’s growth as a leader and player has the team dreaming big. “He’s aggressive. He wants to win. He’s going to come after people’s necks,” Fox said. “He’s a headhunter. And I love him for it.”