COSTA MESA, CA — After his first full day of Training Camp inching closer to the 2023 regular season, quarterback Justin Herbert signed the biggest contract of his lifetime. With more money comes more responsibility, as the franchise quarterback he can surely focus on football and aid this team with a successful season that could lead into a deep playoff push.
“I’m so thankful to the Chargers organization, the Spanos Family. Tom Telesco for believing in me three years ago. Ed McGuire, Katie Sylvan. Words aren’t enough to express how thankful and how glad I am to be part of this organization. I had complete faith in them from the get-go,” Herbert said.
It was imperative for Herbert and the Chargers to get the deal done before Training Camp, to avoid repetitive questions, doubt and allowing a situation to drag on longer than it needed. However once the news broke about his new deal, fans treated Herbert like a rock star, every time he’d take field for drills fans would yell out his name. Herbert took the time after practice to sign every autograph, take photos and even gave his cleats away to two young fans. With his new 5-year deal in place that begins in the 2025 season, and the Chargers having high expectations that include secure a playoff win, what did Herbert see in the organization that gave him the confidence to sign long term?
“I think the Spanos Family has done such a great job of dedicating themselves to this team. They’re willing and going to do anything possible to win. I’m so thankful for them and everything that they’ve invested into us as players. They’ve taken incredible care for us.
“The locker room that we have in there, the culture that we’ve built with Coach [Brandon] Staley, I’m super proud to be part of it.”
A new contract, a new energy, and what appears to be a new focus, the team and the organization rest on the shoulders of Herbert. One great move the Chargers is the hiring of Kellen Moore as offensive coordinator. Moore spent time in Dallas last season coaching Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. With the arrival of Moore on the sidelines this season for the Bolts, get ready for an offensive charge that has been missing from the squad for quite some time.
“He’s played the game quite a bit, as well. He’s got a great feel for the game. Just the meeting rooms, on the field, you pick up a lot from him. He has a lot of experience.”
Heavy is the head who wears the crown, and though he’s grown on the field and in the leadership role, his abilities will have to continue to increase as the face of the franchise and top 10 NFL quarterback. Money doesn’t really phase him, his play on the field, his teammates and family is who he gets hyped for. With a strong head on his shoulders, respect from his coaches and organization, Herbert is selfless, aware, and on a road to proving to the entire league that not only is a special player, but someone you will not overlook or doubt ever. Herbert is no ego and team first guy, the Chargers couldn’t ask for a better talent.
“We know there are some really selfless guys on this team. I’m just so loyal to them and so thankful to their support along the way. I think it might be my turn to make up for some of that.”
