Why PFF believes Justin Herbert could be named All-Pro in 2026
Justin Herbert is arguably one of the best quarterbacks in the league, but his performance has largely been overshadowed by the team's struggles. The 2026 season has the potential to tell a differen…
Justin Herbert is arguably one of the best quarterbacks in the league, but his performance has largely been overshadowed by the team's struggles. The
Read Full Story at Yahoo Sports →Why This Matters
The debate over Justin Herbert’s standing among NFL elites has long been clouded by the Chargers’ organizational instability, leaving his true ceiling unexamined. If PFF’s projection for 2026 holds weight, it could reframe Herbert’s legacy—not just as a statistical powerhouse, but as a franchise quarterback who thrived despite systemic dysfunction. Such a designation would force a reevaluation of how talent is measured when it’s trapped in suboptimal ecosystems.
Background Context
Herbert’s draft-day slide due to perceived maturity concerns contrasts sharply with the Chargers’ early struggles to build a cohesive roster around him, including coaching turnover and inconsistent offensive line play. The team’s 2023-24 seasons exposed the fragility of relying on a single star while neglecting complementary pieces, a pitfall that’s derailed far more heralded QBs. Meanwhile, the league’s shifting defensive schemes—prioritizing speed over size—have disproportionately exposed Herbert’s pocket presence, masking his arm talent.
What Happens Next
Herbert’s 2024 performance under Jim Harbaugh will be the first true test of his ability to elevate talent-deficient surroundings, with the offensive line and receiving corps under intense scrutiny. If the Chargers falter again, the narrative could shift toward systemic failure, but a resurgence might finally silence critics who’ve fixated on his playoff win totals. The 2026 timeline also hinges on whether the NFL’s evolving pass-rush rules favor pocket passers, potentially swinging PFF’s projections.
Bigger Picture
Herbert’s case reflects a broader league-wide tension between individual brilliance and organizational competence, where QBs like Josh Allen and Dak Prescott have thrived in more stable environments. The rise of advanced analytics in QB evaluation—particularly metrics tracking ball placement and pressure mitigation—could redefine "All-Pro" standards, making Herbert’s potential designation a bellwether for a more nuanced approach to quarterback excellence.
