Justin Herbert’s excellent play under center for the Chargers has taken the NFL by storm in recent seasons, and with the 2023 campaign on the horizon, it seems his trajectory is pointed ever-upward.
The fourth-year quarterback came within 300 yards of setting his personal-best mark for a single-season passing production in 2022 but took a considerable step back in terms of raw scoring last season.
Los Angeles made considerable investments at the receiver position in the 2023 NFL draft, which should help Herbert exceed his 2022 numbers under newly-minted offensive coordinator Kellen Moore.
In addition to the veteran presence of Keenan Allen and Mike Williams on the boundary, rookie pass catcher Quentin Johnston looks to be a key factor in the Chargers’ air attack next season, which should give Herbert options in the pocket.
Under normal circumstances, a conservative projection for Herbert’s output would look something like 4,500 yards, 32 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. Still, given the team’s investments in his supporting cast and the make-or-break stakes of the 2023 season, he should be expected to push the envelope.
Our bottom line, all factors considered estimate for his production next season looks closer to 5,100 yards, 38 touchdowns and 13 interceptions, assuming that he plays each of the 17 games on Los Angeles’ schedule.
In an unpredictable league, though, watch for these numbers to be lower if the Chargers encounter issues with the implementation of Moore’s offense.
