Los Angeles Chargers and Justin Herbert Agree to 5-Year, $262.5 Million Extension
The Los Angeles Chargers have reached an agreement with quarterback Justin Herbert on a five-year, $262.5 million contract extension, according to sources. The deal comes just before the start of training camp and will keep Herbert with the Chargers through the 2029 season.
Herbert’s extension makes him the highest-paid quarterback in NFL history based on average annual value. This offseason has seen several quarterbacks sign blockbuster extensions, including Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles (five years, $255 million) and Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens (five years, $260 million).
“I sleep better at night knowing we have a franchise quarterback,” said Chargers general manager Tom Telesco. “He’s done so much already in his young career, yet we all know there’s still a lot there because of his commitment to the game.”
Since being selected with the sixth overall pick in 2020, Herbert has achieved numerous significant statistical milestones. He has led the Chargers to their first playoff appearance since 2018 and has a record of 25-24 with a playoff loss. Herbert has thrown for 14,089 yards, surpassing Andrew Luck for the most passing yards in a quarterback’s first three NFL seasons. He has also completed 1,316 career passes, the most in league history for a player’s first three seasons. His Total QBR of 64 ranks fourth best in the NFL since his rookie season.
Herbert has thrown 94 career touchdowns and has recorded three consecutive seasons with at least 25 passing touchdowns, putting him in elite company alongside Hall of Famer Peyton Manning.
Despite having two seasons remaining on his rookie deal, the Chargers began negotiations with Herbert on a long-term extension after the 2022 season. Coach Brandon Staley expressed confidence that Herbert would remain with the team for a long time.
“We’re so excited that he is leading our franchise,” Staley said. The Chargers’ ability to secure a deal with Herbert before training camp allows the organization to focus on earning a repeat postseason appearance, something they haven’t achieved since 2009.
This season, Herbert will be working with new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, who joins the Chargers after four successful seasons as the Dallas Cowboys’ offensive coordinator. Moore’s unit ranked in the top four in points per game, yards per game, and third-down conversion percentage.
Herbert will also have a talented group of playmakers at his disposal, including receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, first-round pick Quentin Johnston, and running back Austin Ekeler, who led the NFL in touchdowns last season.
Prior to the extension, Herbert was set to earn $4.23 million in the fourth year of his rookie contract.
In conclusion, the Los Angeles Chargers have secured their franchise quarterback for the foreseeable future with a lucrative contract extension for Justin Herbert. With Herbert’s impressive statistics and leadership on the field, the Chargers are optimistic about their chances of making a repeat postseason appearance. With a new offensive coordinator and a talented group of playmakers, Herbert has all the tools necessary to continue his success in the NFL.