The Chargers drafted quarterback Justin Herbert with the No. 6 overall selection in the 2020 NFL Draft with the hopes of him becoming the long-term solution at the position, and so far it appears to be paying off.
The Athletic’s Dane Brugler compiled a list of the top rookies at each position through the quarter mark of the season, and edging out No. 1 overall pick Joe Burrow is Herbert.
Here is a gist of Brugler’s reasoning for giving the edge to Herbert:
The main reason I gave Herbert the edge so far is the impact plays. He has produced more 20-plus yard passing plays (11 compared to eight for Burrow) and 36.3% of his passing plays have resulted in a first down, slightly ahead of Burrow at 35.4%.
Some might argue that Burrow has been more impressive when you consider his offensive line, but the Chargers’ offensive line has also been a problem. Herbert has been pressured on 31.9% of his dropbacks compared to 26.0% for Burrow.
In three games, the former Oregon product has amassed 931 passing yards, five passing touchdowns, three interceptions while completing 72% of his passes.
Many thought that the rookie needed time to develop, and while that was the original plan before Tyrod Taylor’s injury, Herbert has shown that the stage isn’t too big for him as he’s gone toe to toe with two of the best quarterbacks in the league, Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes and Buccaneers’ Tom Brady.
Herbert has done his best to put Los Angeles in position to win in each of his three games, but there have been other unfortunate blunders that have gotten in the way from the rookie getting his first win.
Herbert has debunked a lot of his pre-draft scouting report with his play. His big arm has been on display in every game up, but his poise and pocket awareness and mobility when under pressure has been quite impressive.
Herbert has done enough to keep his job as the starter moving forward, but coach Anthony Lynn said that Taylor would get his job back when healthy. We now wait to see if Lynn sticks to his word.