Chargers’ Justin Herbert Earns MVP Praise Despite Tough Season

EL SEGUNDO — Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert is receiving strong endorsement for the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, despite what some might consider a less-than-stellar statistical season. The 2025 regular season saw Herbert complete 340 of 512 passes, achieving a completion rate of 66.4%. He threw for 3,727 yards, recording 26 touchdowns and 13 interceptions over 16 games, leading the Chargers to an 11-5 record and earning his second Pro Bowl selection.

Coach Jim Harbaugh announced that Herbert will sit out the Chargers’ regular-season finale against the Denver Broncos to avoid further injury to his fractured non-throwing left hand. This decision comes as the team prepares for the playoffs, which begin next week.

Herbert’s performance, while not statistically outstanding compared to previous seasons, has garnered admiration for how he handled significant adversity. Chargers offensive coordinator Greg Roman expressed that Herbert’s ability to lead the team through these challenges defines his MVP-worthy season.

Overcoming Adversity

Herbert played the last five games of the season with a fractured hand that required surgery shortly after he was injured during a victory over the Las Vegas Raiders on November 30, 2025. Additionally, he was without key offensive linemen, including left tackle Rashawn Slater, who suffered a season-ending knee injury during training camp, and right tackle Joe Alt, who was sidelined due to an ankle injury in early November.

Roman highlighted Herbert’s perseverance, stating, “When you look around the league with the other teams that have had attrition such as this, the results aren’t quite the same.” He emphasized that Herbert’s mental fortitude allowed him to navigate through challenging circumstances, stating, “It just funnels to him. It rolls uphill to him.”

The Chargers secured crucial victories this season, including a 23-20 win against the Broncos on September 21, a 29-27 triumph over the Miami Dolphins on October 12, and narrow wins against the Philadelphia Eagles (22-19) and Kansas City Chiefs (16-13) last month. These games showcased Herbert’s resilience and leadership, contributing to the team’s playoff berth.

Recognition and Future Prospects

Despite a season where 300-yard games were scarce, Herbert’s impact on the team remains undeniable. He faced a career-high of 54 sacks but continued to perform, missing only ten snaps after his injury against the Raiders. Roman noted that Herbert’s ability to lead the Chargers to consecutive playoff appearances for the first time since 2008 and 2009 marks a significant achievement.

As the Chargers prepare for the playoffs, the organization and fans alike recognize Herbert’s contributions, both on and off the field. His handling of adversity and commitment to the team has solidified his position as a key figure in the franchise, paving the way for potential future accolades and a promising career ahead.