In the weeks leading up to the NFL draft, the Los Angeles Chargers were approached by the New England Patriots and the Minnesota Vikings with trade offers for their star quarterback, Justin Herbert. However, Chargers’ general manager Joe Hortiz quickly dismissed both requests, citing the high cost of such a trade. If the Chargers had agreed to trade Herbert, they would have been hit with a massive $63.5 million salary cap charge for the 2024 season. This amount is a significant portion of their salary cap and would have put them in a difficult financial situation.
Despite the lucrative offers from other teams, the Chargers remained firm in their decision to keep Justin Herbert as their starting quarterback. The team had signed Herbert to a five-year, $262.5 million extension just the year before, with a substantial amount of guarantees included in the contract. This shows the level of confidence the Chargers have in Herbert and their belief that he is the cornerstone of their franchise.
Chargers’ GM Joe Hortiz made it clear that there was no intention of trading Justin Herbert, despite the interest from other teams. When asked about the trade inquiries, Hortiz jokingly responded, “Justin who?” This lighthearted comment underscores the team’s unwavering commitment to their young quarterback. Throughout the process, the Chargers made it known that trading Herbert was never an option for them.
Since the hiring of Coach Jim Harbaugh and GM Joe Hortiz in February, there has been a strong emphasis on building a dominant rushing offense. Both Harbaugh and Hortiz have highlighted the importance of a solid offensive line and a strong running game. This strategy is aimed at complementing Justin Herbert’s skills and elevating his performance on the field. The Chargers see Herbert as a key piece of their future success and are determined to support him with a well-rounded offensive game plan.
Despite the trade inquiries and external speculations, the Chargers remain optimistic about Justin Herbert’s potential. The team’s decision to reject the trade offers is a testament to their belief in Herbert as a franchise quarterback. With a strong running game and a revamped offensive line, the Chargers are poised to make a significant impact in the league. Offensive coordinator Greg Roman even posed the question, “Can you imagine Justin Herbert with a great running game?” This rhetorical question highlights the team’s excitement and vision for Herbert’s future in Los Angeles.
The Chargers’ decision to turn down trade inquiries for Justin Herbert reflects their commitment to building a competitive and successful team. By investing in Herbert’s growth and surrounding him with a strong supporting cast, the Chargers are setting themselves up for long-term success in the NFL. Justin Herbert’s journey with the Chargers is just beginning, and the team is ready to embrace the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead.
Leave a Reply