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Justin Herbert's Continued Absence from Throwing Raises Concerns for Chargers

Topic: generalRegion: north americaUpdated: i2 outletsSources: 2⚠ Bias gap — sources divergeSpectrum: MixedFiltered: US/Canada (1/2)· Clear⏱ 4 min read
📰 Scored from 2 outletsacross 1 Center 1 RightHow we score bias →
Story Summary
SITUATION
Justin Herbert has not thrown during multiple OTA sessions, raising concerns about his health. The Chargers attribute this to a footwork overhaul under new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, but skepticism remains regarding the true reasons behind his absence.
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KEY FACTS
  • But Herbert has now gone through multiple OTA sessions without throwing, while also missing portions of the voluntary offseason program earlier this spring during a trip to Europe with girlfriend Madison Beer.
  • Those absences were approved by head coach Jim Harbaugh, but combined with the ongoing no-throw practices, they create an interesting backdrop.
  • Herbert was sacked 54 times, absorbed 75 quarterback hits, and faced pressure on 40.7 percent of his dropbacks, one of the highest rates in the NFL.
HISTORICAL CONTEXT

As of June 2026, the Los Angeles Chargers are navigating a critical phase in their offseason, particularly concerning the health and performance of their star quarterback, Justin Herbert.

His absence from throwing during organized team activities (OTAs) has raised alarms among fans and analysts alike, especially following a challenging previous season where he faced significant pressure, resulting in 54 sacks and 75 quarterback hits.

Brief

Justin Herbert's ongoing absence from throwing during organized team activities (OTAs) has raised significant concerns regarding his health and readiness for the upcoming NFL season. The Chargers have publicly stated that Herbert's lack of throwing is part of a mechanical overhaul under new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, who is focusing on improving footwork and timing.

However, skepticism persists among fans and analysts, who question whether there are deeper issues at play. Herbert has not thrown during multiple OTA sessions, and his earlier absences from the voluntary offseason program, which were approved by head coach Jim Harbaugh, have only added to the intrigue surrounding his situation.

Last season, Herbert faced considerable pressure, being sacked 54 times and absorbing 75 quarterback hits, which contributed to a high pressure rate of 40.7 percent on his dropbacks. The Chargers' framing of Herbert's absence as a mechanical adjustment may not fully alleviate concerns about his health, especially given the scrutiny surrounding his performance last season.

As the offseason progresses, the Chargers will need to address these concerns to ensure Herbert is prepared for the challenges ahead in the upcoming season.

Where sources differ
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Left- and right-leaning outlets are covering this story differently — in which facts to emphasize, which context to include, and how to frame causes and consequences.

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Justin Herbert’s no-throw OTA raises injury concern despite Chargers’ explanation Justin Herbert’s no-throw OTA raises injury concern despite Chargers’ explanation Justin Herbert’s…
Sources
1 of 2 linked articles · Filter: US/Canada