Chargers Fall to 0-7, and Justin Herbert Gets Benching Rumors Despite Harbaugh’s Answer

A difficult season for Herbert

Herbert has started at quarterback for the Chargers since his rookie season in 2020. He won Offensive Rookie of the Year, earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and received MVP votes.

The article describes his 2026 season as a sharp decline. It also points to injuries and poor coaching, while arguing that Herbert has not been able to overcome those problems as he did in the past.

Numbers against the Rams

Herbert threw for 257 yards against the Rams, which the article identifies as his season high. He finished without a touchdown and threw two interceptions. The report says Herbert leads the league in interceptions and ranks near the bottom among starters in passing yards and touchdowns. It describes both of his interceptions against Los Angeles as throws directly to defenders.

Harbaugh rejects benching idea

After the game, reporter Eric Williams asked Harbaugh whether he had considered benching Herbert. Williams reported that Harbaugh replied, “No.” Williams also said Harbaugh described play-calling as a team effort and said most players in the locker room had not been in this position before. Harbaugh said the team would keep working, while the article notes that benching talk has now reached the coach.