The Los Angeles Chargers have decided to keep their star quarterback, Justin Herbert, off the field for the upcoming Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio. Although Herbert is fully healthy and actively participating in training camp, the coaching staff has opted to rest him as a precaution heading into the regular season, prioritizing his long-term well-being.
Trey Lance to Lead Chargers in Preseason Debut
Instead of Herbert, Trey Lance will take the first snaps under center for the Chargers during the preseason opener against the Detroit Lions. Acquired this past April on a one-year contract worth $6.2 million, Lance represents a promising option for head coach Jim Harbaugh, who is eager to offer him valuable game experience.
He’s had a heck of a camp … I just want to get Trey Lance game experience. With his career and then in college, he doesn’t have as much as most guys,
Harbaugh said.
This move places Lance ahead of veteran Taylor Heinicke on the depth chart, with Heinicke remaining on the roster strictly as an emergency quarterback should the need arise. The Chargers, like many NFL teams in such exhibitions, often hold key starters out to manage risk early in the preseason.
Rising Quarterback Faces Critical Opportunity
Trey Lance’s arrival in Los Angeles follows previous seasons with the San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys, where limited playing time has kept his full potential untested. As the third overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, his pro career has encountered more challenges than chances. To date, Lance has appeared in just 12 games, starting five times, and compiled 1,063 passing yards with five touchdowns and four interceptions, plus 276 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown.
The Hall of Fame Game will be a significant audition for Lance, giving coaches a rare look at his abilities under live game conditions. Harbaugh highlighted this as a priority to better evaluate Lance’s readiness and to enhance the team‘s depth behind Herbert.
A strong performance could elevate Lance’s role within a quarterback room anchored by Herbert and improve the Chargers’ contingency plans at the position.
Justin Herbert Remains Franchise Cornerstone Amid Cautious Approach
Despite sitting out this preseason game, Herbert continues to be the face of the Chargers’ offense. Harbaugh has repeatedly praised Herbert’s exceptional talent, stating plainly:
Do not change a thing about Justin Herbert
. The coach has also expressed ambitions to guide Herbert toward a Hall of Fame career.
The decision to rest Herbert at this stage reflects the team‘s focus on protecting its franchise quarterback, while also demonstrating confidence in the squad’s quarterback depth.
Preseason Kickoff Carries Symbolic and Practical Importance
The Hall of Fame Game serves not only to open the NFL preseason but also to honor legendary figures being inducted into the Hall of Fame, such as Antonio Gates, Eric Allen, Jared Allen, and Sterling Sharpe. Apart from Herbert’s absence, the game remains a valuable platform for rookies and other players to showcase their skills and compete for roster spots as the Chargers finalize their lineup for the regular season.