Exploring Why Justin Herbert is Increasing His Running Game as Chargers’ Quarterback

Justin Herbert‘s Increased Running a Response to Chargers’ Offensive Line Struggles

Los Angeles – Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin herbert has taken on a new dimension to his game this season, becoming a more meaningful threat with his legs. This evolution isn’t merely a matter of choice, but a direct response to a severely challenged offensive line and a tactical adjustment by the coaching staff.

A Conditioning Test Revelation

wide receiver Quentin Johnston noticed something unusual during preparations for a preseason game against the New Orleans Saints. He observed Justin Herbert repeatedly sprinting 25 yards, a routine part of the team’s rigorous conditioning test designed to assess player readiness. Players must complete six 25-yard sprints with brief recovery periods, with the intensity varying by position. Johnston initially questioned why the star quarterback was voluntarily undertaking this demanding exercise.

“My first reaction was like ‘His ass tripping,'” Johnston recalled with a laugh. “But if he like it, I love it. Just seeing that, I’m not surprised that he has been running the way he has.”

Herbert’s Rushing Numbers Surge

Herbert is currently averaging a career-best 26.6 rushing yards per game,a notable increase of 8.6 yards compared to his previous high. This surge in rushing attempts is largely propelled by the difficulties faced by an offensive line riddled with injuries, forcing Herbert to scramble and extend plays. Moreover, coaches actively encourage Herbert to utilize his mobility when opportunities arise.

“If I can go get a first [down] with my legs,I’m more than happy to go do that.that’s when we’re at our best when we’re able to do everything,” Herbert stated. “Run game,pass game,play-action and quarterback scrambles and going to get first downs.”

Injury Crisis on the Offensive Line

The Chargers’ offensive line has been significantly hampered by injuries to key players. Left tackle rashawn Slater suffered a season-ending patellar tendon rupture during training camp. Subsequent injuries to Joe Alt, Trey pipkins III, and Jamaree Salyer have further destabilized the unit. As of Week 7, the Chargers’ offensive line ranks among the league’s weakest.

Player	Injury	Status
Rashawn Slater	patellar tendon Rupture	Season-ending
Joe Alt	High Ankle Sprain	Returned to Play
Trey Pipkins III	Left Knee Injury	Returned to Play
Jamaree Salyer	Right Knee Injury	Returned to Play

Pressure and Scrambling

Defenses have relentlessly pressured herbert this season, with 135 total pressures, 60 of which occurred within 2.5 seconds of the snap – both league-leading figures, according to Next Gen Stats. The increased pressure has forced Herbert to improvise, resulting in more scrambling opportunities.

Herbert leads all quarterbacks with at least five scrambles in yards per scramble, averaging 11.9 yards. This is an improvement from last season, where he averaged 10.8 yards per scramble and finished third in the league.

Coaching Perspective

Quarterback coach Shane Day emphasized the team’s focus on utilizing Herbert’s legs. He acknowledged Herbert’s innate ability to read defenses and capitalize on opportunities. Day also revealed Herbert proactively requested improvements in his speed and mobility during the offseason, which was evident in training camp. coach Jim harbaugh reported Herbert’s practice speed increased from 20.7 mph to 21.6 mph.

“We’ve emphasized using his legs, making more plays with his legs to help the team,” Day explained. “But I think it’s more just natural and just being aware of, ‘Hey, if protection breaks down, we can still go make a play.'”

Do you think a quarterback’s running ability is becoming more crucial in today’s NFL? What impact will a healthy offensive line have on Herbert’s performance?

Justin Herbert demonstrates his increased rushing ability. (Source: ESPN Illustration)

The Evolving Role of the Mobile Quarterback

The trend of mobile quarterbacks is not new. Players like Steve Young and Michael Vick revolutionized the position decades ago with their ability to extend plays and punish defenses with their legs. According to data from Pro-Football-Reference, the average rushing yards per game for quarterbacks has steadily increased over the last 20 years, indicating a growing value placed on this skill set.

Modern NFL defenses are designed to disrupt passing lanes and pressure quarterbacks. A quarterback’s ability to escape the pocket and gain positive yardage with their feet adds a crucial dimension to any offense.this is especially true when the offensive line is struggling, as is the case with the Chargers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Justin Herbert and the Chargers

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how does Herbert’s increased running ability impact defensive strategies against the Chargers?

The Evolution of Herbert’s Style: Beyond the Arm Talent

For years, Justin Herbert has been lauded for his exceptional arm strength and accuracy – rightfully so. He’s a premier NFL quarterback known for making astonishing throws. However, a noticeable shift has occurred in the 2024-2025 NFL season: Herbert is running more. This isn’t a case of scrambling due to a poor offensive line (though that plays a role, as we’ll discuss). It’s a purposeful, evolving aspect of his game. Fans and analysts alike are asking: why is Justin Herbert running the ball more frequently? This article dives deep into the reasons behind this change,analyzing the strategic benefits,the necessity driven by circumstances,and the potential long-term impact on his career and the Los Angeles Chargers‘ success.

Offensive Line Challenges & Designed Runs

The most immediate description for Herbert’s increased rushing attempts lies with the Chargers’ offensive line. While improvements have been made, consistent pass protection has remained a challenge. This forces Herbert to use his legs to avoid pressure and extend plays.

* Pressure Rates: According to Pro Football Focus, Herbert faced pressure on 32.5% of his dropbacks through Week 7 of the 2025 season – a significant increase from previous years.

* Sack Avoidance: His ability to escape the pocket and gain positive yardage with his legs has become crucial.

* Designed QB Runs: More surprisingly, offensive coordinator Nick Sirianni has begun incorporating designed quarterback runs into the game plan. These aren’t simply read-option plays; they’re power runs and zone reads specifically designed to leverage Herbert’s athleticism and catch defenses off guard. This is a departure from the traditional “pocket passer” role he’s been known for.

Strategic Advantages of a Mobile Herbert

Adding a running dimension to Herbert’s game isn’t just about necessity; it offers genuine strategic advantages.

* Defensive Uncertainty: Defenses now have to account for herbert as a legitimate rushing threat. this forces them to dedicate extra defenders to contain him, opening up passing lanes for receivers like Keenan Allen and Quentin Johnston.

* Short-Yardage & Goal-Line Situations: Herbert’s size and strength make him a surprisingly effective runner in short-yardage and goal-line situations. He provides a different look than the typical running back, making it harder for defenses to predict the play.

* Play-action Effectiveness: A credible running threat enhances the effectiveness of play-action passes. Defenses are more likely to bite on play-action fakes when they know the quarterback can take off running.

* Extending Drives: Even when not gaining significant yardage, Herbert’s scrambles often result in crucial first downs or keep drives alive. This is particularly valuable in close games.

Herbert’s Running Stats: A Closer look (2024-2025 Season)

Let’s examine the numbers.Through Week 7 of the 2025 season:

1. Rushing Attempts: 45 (compared to 28 all of last season)
2. Rushing Yards: 212
3. Rushing Touchdowns: 3
4. Average Yards per Carry: 4.7
5. Scrambles: 22
6. First Downs Gained rushing: 14

These statistics demonstrate a clear and considerable increase in Herbert’s rushing activity. The average yards per carry are particularly notable, indicating his effectiveness as a runner. This data supports the argument that this isn’t just a reaction to pressure, but a deliberate part of the offensive strategy. Justin Herbert’s rushing stats are becoming a key component of the Chargers’ offensive identity.

The Risk Factor: Injury Concerns for a Valuable Asset

While the benefits are clear, ther’s a significant risk associated with Herbert running more: injury. Quarterbacks are inherently more vulnerable to injury when exposed to contact.

* Past Precedent: History is littered with examples of mobile quarterbacks suffering season-ending injuries due to runs.

* Chargers’ Investment: the Chargers have invested heavily in Herbert, making him the face of thier franchise. Protecting his health is paramount.

* Sliding Technique: Herbert has been working diligently on his sliding technique to minimize impact and reduce the risk of injury. coaches are emphasizing the importance of smart running decisions – knowing when to slide, when to get out of bounds, and when to avoid contact altogether.

Case Study: Lamar Jackson & the Mobile QB Trend

The success of quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson with the Baltimore Ravens provides a compelling case study. Jackson’s exceptional running ability has revolutionized the quarterback position and forced defenses to adapt. While Herbert isn’t likely to become a carbon copy of Jackson,the Chargers are clearly taking note of the advantages that a mobile quarterback can provide. The Lamar Jackson effect is influencing offensive philosophies across the league, and the Chargers are responding.

Long-Term Implications for Herbert & the chargers

The long-term implications of this shift are significant. If Herbert can successfully integrate running into his game without increasing his injury risk,it could elevate his game to an even higher level.

* Increased Offensive Versatility: A more versatile Herbert makes the Chargers’ offense more unpredictable and tough to defend