Justin Herbert will peak during postseason, according to the Chargers' plan. On June 20, the team wrapped up their offseason, with training camp next at their El Segundo headquarters.
What happened?
The Chargers managed Justin Herbert's offseason practices, reducing his throwing load. Coach Jim Harbaugh said they're trying a different approach this year.
Why it matters for Justin Herbert
This new approach allows Herbert to focus on his footwork, which new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel tweaked to help expedite the quickness with which Herbert gets rid of the ball.
Herbert is further along in the transition, thanks to exclusively working on his footwork during practices where he barely touched a football.
What comes next?
The hope is that it puts Herbert in a better position to play his best football and be at his physical peak late in the season and in the playoffs. Herbert said he's thinking about his footwork now so he doesn't have to think about it during games.
The Chargers insist this new approach wasn't in response to any late-season arm strength issues over the last few seasons. Harbaugh said they have a nice progression where Herbert is ramping up to training camp and the first game of the season.
Herbert will be reacting, not thinking, during games. He's working on being as efficient as possible with his footwork.
The Chargers are set up for success with Derwin James, their All-Pro safety. McDaniel got a firsthand look at James and understands why he's arguably the best player at his position in the NFL.
James inspires people with his energy, according to McDaniel. The new defensive coordinator, Chris O'Leary, envisions James building on the role he's mastered throughout his career.
James will be a little bit more versatile, lining up to the boundary, as a pass rusher, in the slot, and more. The Chargers are preparing for the postseason with a strong plan, and Justin Herbert is at the center of it.
On June 20, the Chargers finished their offseason, and now they're looking forward to training camp. The team is focused on peak performance, and Herbert is ready to lead them to success.
The Chargers' plan is to have Herbert peak during the postseason. They're managing his practices, and he's working on his footwork. The result will be Herbert playing his best football late in the season and in the playoffs.
The team is set up for success, and Herbert is the key. With his new approach and focus on footwork, he'll be reacting, not thinking, during games. The Chargers are ready for the postseason, and Justin Herbert is leading the way.