The Los Angeles Chargers are preparing for an unusual preseason debut.
Justin Herbert has compiled solid numbers in his five NFL seasons, but the veteran quarterback is about to experience something new.
“Chargers QB Justin Herbert will start at QB and make his first-ever preseason appearance on Saturday,” Eric Smith wrote on X.
#Chargers QB Justin Herbert will start at QB and make his first-ever preseason appearance on Saturday. ⬇️https://t.co/jXSKIlo7Cg pic.twitter.com/PQwE4YiQMK
— Eric Smith (@Eric_L_Smith) August 14, 2025
Head coach Jim Harbaugh announced that Herbert will face the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium.
The decision breaks a streak that dates to Herbert’s rookie year of 2020.
He entered the NFL during the COVID-19 pandemic when preseason games were canceled.
He sat out preseason games from 2021 through 2023 as the team protected its franchise quarterback. Last year, a foot injury kept him sidelined before the season began.
Harbaugh plans to use Herbert for one or two series alongside the offensive starters.
The approach gives the quarterback some game action while limiting his exposure to potential injury.
Trey Lance and Taylor Heinicke have handled preseason duties in Herbert’s absence. Lance started the Hall of Fame Game against the Detroit Lions while Heinicke opened against the New Orleans Saints.
They will see action behind Herbert against the Rams.
The timing works well for Herbert, who is coming off a strong 2024 campaign. He completed 65.9 percent of his passes for 3,870 yards and 23 touchdowns with just three interceptions in 17 games.
NEXT: NFL Insider Reveals Early Concern For Chargers In Preseason