Arguably the biggest question heading into the upcoming season for the Chargers lies at the quarterback spot.
Many are wondering if positive results will come from the position after having the luxury of Philip Rivers being the starting under center for 14 seasons.
Tyrod Taylor and rookie Justin Herbert take over. However, all eyes are on Taylor, who is the signal-caller expected to have the keys to the offense to start the 2020 season.
The way that Taylor performs this year will have a significant impact on the team’s results. For that reason, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox named him Los Angeles’ biggest X-factor.
The Chargers had better hope to get more out of Taylor than the Browns because rookie quarterback Justin Herbert is not a pro-ready prospect. He has as much potential as any quarterback taken in April’s draft, but he’ll need time to adapt to the nuances of being an NFL signal-caller.
“His inconsistency can be maddening, and his decision-making must improve, but you can’t doubt his talent,” ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. wrote of Herbert in January.
The Chargers need Herbert on the sideline for most or all of the 2020 season. Taylor was a Pro Bowler in 2015 and led the Bills to the playoffs two years later. If he can play at that level, Los Angeles has a talented enough roster to make a serious run at the postseason.
Despite having an offense which features a handful of the league’s top skill players, there’s no guarantee for offensive success if the quarterback play is not up to par.
While Taylor has the athleticism to beat defenses with his legs – which is a plus since the offense will become more run-heavy – there is still some questions surrounding his ability as passer.
Even though he doesn’t throw a lot of interceptions, Taylor struggles with accuracy and seeing the middle of the field well, which is where key players in tight end Hunter Henry and wide receiver Keenan Allen shine.
If Taylor struggles then the Chargers will likely have to lean on Herbert. Herbert is viewed as the hopeful long-term answer, but there’s no guarantee that he will be able to succeed in his rookie season.
With that being said, how Taylor does could either make or break Los Angeles’ season in 2020.