Will the Chargers Two-Time Pro Bowl Quarterback Ever Win a Super Bowl?

NFL

The Los Angeles Chargers had another winning season, finishing 11-6 and making the playoffs for the second straight year. In the last five seasons, the Chargers have finished with a winning record four times and made the playoffs three times. Unfortunately for the team, all three playoff runs ended in the first round, leaving them with zero playoff wins since 2018. The fans have shown their frustration, as success in the regular season never seems to translate into postseason success. Head coach Jim Harbaugh has only been with the team for two seasons, during which they have a combined record of 22-12 and two playoff appearances, leaving the organization with some hope for figuring things out. The biggest question, however, is whether the Chargers make a deep playoff run with quarterback Justin Herbert?

Herbert has had an interesting career, beginning his first three seasons with over 4,300 passing yards and his first two seasons with 30 or more touchdowns. For his last three years, he has been unable to get over 4,000 passing yards and hasn’t gotten over 30 touchdowns. In comparison to other quarterbacks in the league, the two-time Pro Bowl quarterback is still one of the best in the NFL despite a dip in production since his first few seasons. The former sixth-overall pick’s struggles come from his performances in the playoffs. In his three games, he has thrown for 674 yards, two touchdowns, and four interceptions. He also has a completion percentage of 54%, struggling to replicate his performances in the regular seasons. In this most recent playoff run, Herbert only threw for 159 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions. While he wasn’t necessarily the reason they lost, he didn’t give his team a chance to win. If the Chargers want to win their first Super Bowl in franchise history, they’re going to need Herbert to find his footing in the postseason, and they may be able to find him some help with that this offseason.

The biggest problem from last season that didn’t help Herbert at all was his offensive line. The trenches were plagued with injuries and bad performances, ranking 31st in pass blocking for the season. Tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt were a part of those lingering injuries last year, but should be ready to go for a much better 2026 season and be reliable blockers for Herbert. The team will look for a complete overhaul of the interior offensive line, with the departure of center Bradley Bozeman and questions about the production of the guard position. The protection should see a massive upgrade this offseason, whether it’s through free agency or the NFL Draft. Once this process is finished, Herbert will have a much better opportunity at making a deeper playoff run and getting his team a step closer to winning the Super Bowl. The Chargers should continue to support their star quarterback, as he can definitely take the organization to the promised land with the right pieces helping him on offense.

Chris Rodriguez

Chris Rodriguez is majoring in journalism with a minor in sports journalism at Michigan State University. He hopes to show his passion for sports through his writing.

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