Justin Herbert secured the No. 7 spot in Pro Football Focus’s 2026 quarterback rankings, a clear signal that his talent remains elite despite a rough 2025 campaign.
What drove Herbert to No. 7?
PFF placed Herbert at No. 7 entering the 2026 season after noting his career‑low 73.0 passing grade in 2025. The drop was amplified by a 27.5 grade in the Chargers’ Wild Card loss to the New England Patriots. Yet the analysts highlighted that the Chargers posted the league’s second‑worst pass‑blocking grade (50.6) after both starting tackles—Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt—suffered season‑ending injuries.
How did the line affect his performance?
Herbert was pressured on 288 dropbacks, the most of any quarterback last year. Those sacks and hurries forced him to accelerate his decision‑making and limited deep‑ball opportunities. When he did find a clean pocket, his 91.0 passing grade still ranked sixth league‑wide, showing his skill set shines when protection improves.
Why the ranking still matters for the Chargers
Over the past three seasons, Herbert’s composite 91.2 PFF grade ranks fifth among all NFL quarterbacks. That consistency suggests his 2025 numbers were an outlier caused by external factors rather than a decline in ability. With Slater and Alt slated to return at full strength, the offensive line should stabilize, giving Herbert a clearer field to operate.
What’s next for Herbert in 2026?
The upcoming season offers Herbert a chance to rebound dramatically. A healthier front line means fewer forced throws and more time to execute the Chargers’ vertical attack. If he stays upright and the line holds up, there’s little reason he can’t re‑enter the conversation for MVP‑level performance.
How does this affect the broader NFL landscape?
Herbert’s placement at No. 7 keeps him in the elite quarterback conversation alongside Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen. Opponents will now have to respect a revitalized Chargers offense that can protect its signal‑caller. The ranking also serves as a reminder that individual grades often mask team‑wide issues, a nuance that analysts and fans alike should keep in mind.
Bottom line: despite a statistically disappointing 2025, PFF’s latest rankings confirm that Justin Herbert remains one of the NFL’s premier quarterbacks, poised for a strong comeback as the Chargers’ offensive line returns to health.