MidValleySports.Com

By Tim Peterson

If you’re a backup to Justin Herbert you’re going to be carrying a clipboard more often than taking a snap. Herbert has been one of the most durable quarterbacks in the NFL over his first five seasons. He started 62 consecutive games to start his career before fracturing his right index finger in Week 14 of the 2023 season.

Herbert didn’t miss a game last year but did have to play through a few bumps and bruises. He missed quarters and snaps but never a full game. Hebert had plantar fasciitis in training camp and missed two weeks. He also had a high ankle sprain, a thigh bruise and another separate ankle injury later in the year that caused him to miss parts of games.

Taylor Heinicke filled in during that time but he only appeared in four games and completed 3 of 5 passes for 28 yards. Heinicke is set to spell Herbert again this year but now he will have a little competition. The Chargers have decided to take a flyer on Trey Lance signing him to a one-year, $6.2 million deal.

The jury is still out on Lance. He was selected by the San Francisco 49ers with the third overall pick in the 2021 draft. He started just four games for the 49ers in two years. He suffered an ankle injury that cost him his starting job leading to Brock Purdy taking over and solidifying the job.

Lance was dealt to the Dallas Cowboys in 2023 for a fourth-round draft pick, He didn’t take a snap in ’23 and saw limited duty last season. He started the regular season finale against the Washington Commanders and completed 20 of 34 for 244 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions. He also ran for 26 yards on six carries in a 23-19 loss.

Lance is still only 24 and just needs more experience. The question is how much time will he see with Herbert and Heinicke there? Lance’s signing means that Easton Stick, last year’s third string quarterback, will probably not be back.

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The NFL and the Chargers announced their dates for the off season work out program:

• First Day: April 21
• OTA Offseason Workouts: May 27-28, May 30, June 3-5, June 16-18
• Mandatory Minicamp: June 10-12
• Tim Peterson can be reached at tim.midvalleysports@gmail.com or on Twitter (X) @tspeterson40. Facebook-Tim Peterson.