Justin Herbert will be throwing at each practice during the Chargers’ minicamp week starting July 9, 2026, as head coach Jim Harbaugh ramps him up for training camp and the upcoming season.
What is happening at minicamp?
The Chargers announced that Herbert, who missed portions of spring OTAs, will participate fully in daily throwing drills this week. After a modified schedule that emphasized footwork one day a week, the new plan puts him back into a familiar routine. Harbaugh told ESPN’s Kris Rhim that the progression is designed to have the quarterback ready to hit the ground running when training camp opens.
Why did Herbert’s schedule change?
During OTAs, Herbert took a day each week to focus solely on footwork, aiming to speed up his release. The shift back to full‑court throwing reflects a strategic move by new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, who is in his first offseason with the Chargers. The coaching staff believes that combining footwork work with regular passing will sharpen Herbert’s timing and decision‑making before the season starts.
How does this affect the Chargers’ outlook?
The Chargers are targeting their first playoff win since the 2018 season. By ensuring Herbert is fully engaged in daily reps, the team hopes his preparation will translate into a smoother offensive transition under McDaniel’s scheme. Harbaugh emphasized that the plan is a “nice progression” that leads straight to the first game of the season, indicating confidence that Herbert will be at peak performance when it matters most.
What’s next after minicamp?
Following the intensive minicamp week, the Chargers will move into full‑scale training camp later in July. Herbert’s daily throwing schedule is expected to continue, with added emphasis on reading defenses and syncing with his receiving corps. The ultimate goal is a seamless start to the regular season, where Herbert’s accelerated release and refined footwork could give the Chargers a competitive edge in the AFC West.
Who else is involved in the preparation?
Head coach Jim Harbaugh is overseeing the overall plan, while offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel is tailoring the drills to fit his new system. Veteran receivers and the offensive line will also participate, providing live targets and protection that mimic game‑day conditions. The collaborative effort aims to lock in chemistry before the first snap of the season.
When will fans see the results?
The first official preseason game is slated for early August, giving Herbert roughly a month of full‑speed practice after minicamp. Observers will be watching his release time, footwork precision, and decision‑making under pressure. If the ramp‑up works as intended, Herbert could enter the regular season with a noticeable boost in efficiency and confidence.
How does this fit into Herbert’s career trajectory?
At 27, Herbert is entering what many consider his prime years. The focused footwork work and daily throws signal a commitment to fine‑tuning his skill set rather than relying on raw talent alone. This disciplined approach could help him sustain elite performance levels and keep the Chargers in the playoff conversation for years to come.