Justin Herbert’s Playoff Trouble Persists

Career Playoff Struggles

Justin Herbert has entered three playoff contests, and each has ended in crushing defeat. His first postseason appearance saw the Chargers surrender a 27‑0 lead against the Jaguars in 2022. Two years later, he tossed four interceptions versus the Texans, and last season the Patriots shut them out 16‑3.

After that 16‑3 loss, Herbert was asked if he could finally deliver a playoff win. Instead of a confident affirmation, he answered, “I haven’t figured it out yet, and it hasn’t happened yet so we’ll have to reevaluate and see what happens.” The comment underscored how playoff failures have become a recurring part of his narrative.

Statistically, Herbert’s postseason numbers are modest: a 64.7 passer rating compared with a 96.3 regular‑season rating. Those three losing games illustrate the gap between his everyday brilliance and his inability to produce in the postseason.

Impact of Offensive‑Line Injuries

When Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt were missing, Herbert was pressured at a league‑high 29.8% of drop backs—2% more than any other quarterback. He was sacked 74 times, and even with only one healthy tackle he still managed a 108.8 passer rating in four games.

Now both Slater and Alt are expected back after injuries. Their return could dramatically reduce pressure and open lanes for the running game, potentially unlocking the offense Herbert has shown he can run when given protection.

Offseason Additions to Balance the Roster

Los Angeles spent the offseason adding depth after a year of limited free‑agent activity. Center Tyler Biadasz, guard Cole Strange, and extra tight end Charlie Kolar address offensive‑line needs. Skill‑position signings like running back Keaton Mitchell and tight end David Njoku give Herbert more options.

New Offensive Coordinator Mike McDaniel

Replacing Greg Roman, Mike McDaniel brings a fresh attacking philosophy that should benefit a skill‑rich roster. Fantasy sources point to Ladd McConkey, Omarion Hampton, and Justin Herbert as potential high‑impact performers under the new system.

Defensive Coaching Shake‑Up

The departure of defensive coordinator Jesse Minter to Baltimore leaves a hole. Chris O’Leary, a former Chargers safeties coach, is taking over but has only one season of coordinator experience at any level. The defense ranked top‑10 in points in 2024 but fell to ninth last year, and a slide could hurt the Chargers’ chances.

Best‑Case Scenario: Herbert Finally Breaks Through

With Slater and Alt back, Herbert could post an MVP‑caliber season, especially with McDaniel’s play‑calling. If the Chargers secure a 10‑win base and the defense stays competent, a playoff win finally could be in reach.

Nightmare Scenario: Offense Stagnates, Defense Regresses

If offensive‑line issues linger, Herbert’s passing game stays in the 20th‑ranked DVOA range, and the defense slides without Minter, the Chargers could drop below 12 wins and miss the postseason entirely.

Final Grade and Outlook

Overall, the offseason was solid but not transcendent. Los Angeles earned a **C** for its free‑agent moves and remains a wild‑card contender. As long as injuries stay minimal and the coaching staff clicks, the franchise could finally end Herbert’s playoff drought.