Justin Herbert Set to Start Week 3 for the Chargers

Featured Image Credit: Creator: Keith Birmingham, Keith Birmingham | Credit: Staff Photographer Copyright: Pasadena Star-News/SCNG

The Los Angeles Chargers were forced to start rookie quarterback, Justin Herbert, last week, due to a chest injury to starter, Tyrod Taylor. It turns out that Taylor received an injection for a rib injury, however, while being treated his lung was punctured.

The rookie from the University of Oregon started for the Chargers and almost led his team to a win over the defending super bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chargers fell short, 23-20, in overtime. Herbert threw for 311 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. The young quarterback also ran six times for 18 yards and one touchdown.

Taylor has been ruled out for the Chargers week 3 matchup against the Carolina Panthers. Los Angeles head coach Anthony Lynn said the following about Herbert: “He is a backup for a reason.”

Herbert, 22, hails from Eugene, Oregon. The Los Angeles Chargers selected Herbert with the 6th overall pick in the 2020 NFL draft. He was the first true freshman quarterback to start at Oregon since 1983. He spent four seasons at Oregon throwing for 10,541 yards and 95 touchdowns.

Taylor, 31, was selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the 6th round of the 2011 NFL draft. He sat in a backup role behind Joe Flacco until 2014. Taylor decided to sign with the Buffalo Bills and was named to the 2015 Pro Bowl. Taylor played three years in Buffalo until signing with the Cleveland Browns, and now the Los Angeles Chargers.

Anthony Lynn stated that Taylor will be the teams starting quarterback once he returns and is fully healthy. It will be interesting to see how Herbert responds once Taylor returns.