Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert has once again found himself at the center of debate after being left out of the NFL’s “first tier” quarterbacks in a recent poll of coaches, executives, and scouts conducted by ESPN. Despite his strong arm, high football IQ, and impressive statistical output since entering the league in 2020, Herbert was ranked just outside the league’s elite by those who shape team rosters and game plans.
According to the poll, which asked league insiders to categorize the top quarterbacks into tiers based on performance, leadership, and overall impact, Herbert landed in Tier 2. While this still places him among the NFL’s best signal-callers, it’s a slight that has sparked conversation across the football world. Many argue that Herbert’s talent and consistency should firmly place him alongside stars like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Joe Burrow in the top tier.
Herbert has thrown for over 4,000 yards in each of his first four seasons, with 114 career touchdowns to just 42 interceptions. Yet critics point to a lack of postseason success—just one playoff appearance and no deep runs—as a reason he hasn’t yet cracked the upper echelon.
Supporters of Herbert believe this ranking undervalues his situation. Injuries to key players, coaching changes, and a sometimes suspect defense have hindered the Chargers’ ability to make a deep playoff push. With new head coach Jim Harbaugh now at the helm, many believe Herbert is primed to silence his doubters.
As the 2025 NFL season approaches, all eyes will be on Herbert to prove he belongs among the league’s best. While the latest rankings may have fueled some doubt, they’ve also added fuel to the fire for one of the game’s most talented quarte
rbacks.
