Jim Harbaugh insists he wants to build Chargers team around stars like Justin Herbert… as he dubs QB a ‘crown jewel in the National Football League’
- Herbert only started 13 games for the Chargers last season due to injury issues
- The Chargers could lose several stars because they are $44 million over the cap
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New Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh has outlined his plan to build a team around quarterback Justin Herbert, who he called a “crown jewel in the National Football League.”
Harbaugh recently signed a five-year deal worth $80 million to leave the Michigan Wolverines and sign for the Chargers after leading his alma mater to a national championship.
At his unveiling in LA on Thursday, the 60-year-old head coach also indicated he plans to build his around the team’s most talented players such as Herbert and safety Derwin James Jr.
‘What strikes me is an enormous talent. I wake up really early in the morning these days thinking, ‘I’ve got to take it,'” Harbaugh said.
“I have to bring my A-game. I need to hire a coaching staff that is worthy of coaching Justin, Derwin and all the guys.”
LA Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh was unveiled to the media on Thursday
Harbaugh called his QB Justin Herbert ‘a crown jewel in the National Football League’
Herbert’s career numbers are 1,613-2,422, 17,223 yards, 114 TD, 42 INTs and a 66.6 percent completion percentage
“I really think about my responsibility and make sure I’m ready.”
Herbert has proven to have all the necessary traits to be a franchise QB since the Chargers selected him with the No. 6 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.
During his four seasons in the NFL, Herbert has compiled stats of 1,613-2,422, 17,223 passing yards, 114 passing touchdowns, 42 interceptions and a 66.6 percent completion percentage.
Last season, Herbert missed several games due to injury, but still finished the season with impressive marks of 297-456, 3,134 yards, 20 touchdowns and seven interceptions, even though he only played in 13 games.
In addition to building around Herbert and other key players, Harbaugh and Co will have to clean up the team’s salary cap situation – which could see several big names leave LA.
The Chargers are currently $44 million over the salary cap and could part ways with big names like Khalil Mack or Keenan Allen to resolve their financial situation.