There’s a real possibility when the Pittsburgh Steelers and Los Angeles Chargers square off, Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert won’t be in the starting lineup. However, head coach Jim Harbaugh isn’t ready to commit to either backup quarterback should Herbert be unable to go.
On the Chargers depth chart, Easton Stick is the No. 2 quarterback but you cannot rule out veteran Tyler Heinicke based on his experience. Heinicke is in his 10th NFL and at 31 years old has 29 career starts. He’s 13-15-1 as a starter between the Carolina Panthers, Washington Commanders and Atlanta Falcons. Heinicke started 24 games for the Commanders in two seasons and was 12-11-1.
Jim Harbaugh said Herbert is doing everything he can to get ready to play Sunday.
Harbaugh added he has “a lot of faith” in both Easton Stick and Taylor Heinicke but wouldn’t reveal who would start if Herbert can’t go. https://t.co/YmdsXzZNSJ
— Eric Smith (@Eric_L_Smith) September 20, 2024
Meanwhile Stick was the Chargers fifth-round pick in the 2019 NFL draft. He started Los Angeles’ final four games last season in place of Herbert and went 0-4.
Heinicke brings leadership and experience while Stick adds a dimension of athleticism. Whichever guy starts will have their work cut out for them against the relentless pass rush of the Steelers.
