Justin Herbert fell in Pro Football Focus's (PFF) newest quarterback rankings on July 5, 2026, dropping to No. 12 overall after a season‑long slide in his performance metrics. The shift reflects a dip in his passing efficiency and a tougher schedule for the Los Angeles Chargers, raising questions about his playoff outlook.
What did the PFF rankings reveal?
PFF placed Herbert at 12th among 32 NFL quarterbacks, down from his 8th‑place spot a year earlier. The metric‑heavy evaluation cited a 68.4 passer rating for the 2025 season, compared with a 71.2 rating in 2024. His completion percentage fell to 62.1%, and his yards‑per‑attempt slipped to 6.9. Those numbers sit below the league average for the past twelve months.
Why did Herbert’s grade slip?
Analysts point to a tougher defensive slate in the 2025 schedule. The Chargers faced three top‑10 pass defenses—Baltimore, Buffalo, and San Francisco—each limiting Herbert’s deep‑ball success. Injuries also played a role; a lingering ankle sprain kept him from reaching full mobility in the latter half of the season, according to head coach Brandon Staley.
How does this affect the Chargers’ playoff chances?
The Chargers sit 4‑3 after seven games, trailing the AFC West leader Denver Broncos by two games. Herbert’s dip in efficiency could tighten the race for a wild‑card spot, especially if the team’s rushing attack fails to compensate. Staley emphasized a balanced attack in post‑game press conferences, but the quarterback’s performance remains a key variable.
What’s next for Herbert?
Herbert is slated to face the New York Jets on July 12, a matchup that could serve as a litmus test before the regular season resumes. A strong showing might restore confidence and improve his PFF grade ahead of the Week 1 opener on September 8 against the Seattle Seahawks. Fans will be watching his footwork and decision‑making closely, hoping the ankle injury is fully healed.
How do experts interpret the ranking drop?
Former NFL quarterback and analyst Troy Aikman noted that “ranking fluctuations happen, but a slide of four spots signals a need for adjustment.” He suggested Herbert focus on short‑to‑intermediate routes to rebuild rhythm. Meanwhile, former Chargers offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt warned that “relying on big plays alone won’t sustain a playoff push; consistency is king.”
Can Herbert rebound quickly?
Herbert’s career trajectory shows resilience; he posted a 4,000‑yard season in 2023 after a rookie year of growing pains. If he returns to a 70‑plus passer rating and improves his yards‑per‑attempt above 7.2, PFF’s next update could see him back in the top ten. The next few weeks will be decisive, with the quarterback’s health and the offensive line’s protection at the forefront.
Bottom line?
The July 5 PFF ranking drop puts a spotlight on Justin Herbert’s upcoming performances. While the numbers are a setback, they also provide a clear target for improvement. The Chargers’ playoff fate may hinge on how quickly Herbert can reverse the trend and re‑establish his elite quarterback status.