Justin Herbert gets dragged every time the Chargers stumble, but one of his teammates is straight-up done with the nonsense. After a rough end to the season, the critics came out in full force, acting like Herbert personally fumbled the franchise.
But a $76 million star isn’t letting that slide. While the internet debates his worth, this teammate is firing back, making it clear that Herbert isn’t the problem.
Derwin James Defends Justin Herbert Against Haters, Promises a Big 2025
Herbert’s been catching strays, but Derwin James isn’t having it anymore. The Chargers safety shut down the haters, making it clear his QB deserves way more respect.
“Can we please stop trying number 10? Stop disrespecting him,” James said on “The Edge With Micah Parsons.” And he’s not just talking — he’s making a promise. “I can’t wait for y’all to see… the real 10.”
NEWS: #Chargers DB Derwin James has a strong message for Justin Herbert HATERS
“Can we please stop trying number 10. Stop disrespecting him”
“I promise you. I can’t wait for y’all to see. This next season I know we are going to do what we do for y’all to get to see the real 10” pic.twitter.com/LqJjNfJtdV
— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) February 4, 2025
The criticism is brutal. Herbert’s Wild Card meltdown against the Texans — 242 yards, one touchdown, four picks — had fans questioning if he’s that guy in the postseason. His playoff record? 0-2, with a shaky 52% completion rate.
But let’s be real: Herbert still cooked in 2024. He dropped 3,870 yards and only threw three interceptions while completing nearly 66% of his throws and firing 23 TDs. And he did it without much skill-position firepower, outside of rookie Ladd McConkey.
So yeah, the playoff numbers have to improve. But let’s not pretend Herbert ain’t one of the most talented passers in the game. He’s 26, has a rocket for an arm, and is still the Chargers’ franchise guy.
James is all-in. The 2025 season? It’s going to be Herbert’s chance to shut everyone up for good.
Herbert Skips Pro Bowl To Recover From Injuries
For those wondering why Herbert is missing from the Pro Bowl festivities, it’s simple — injuries. The Chargers QB, named a Pro Bowl alternate, opted out of the Pro Bowl to focus on health.
With Herbert sitting this one out, the AFC’s quarterback lineup got interesting. Joe Burrow makes sense. Russell Wilson? Sure. But rookie Drake Maye? That one raised eyebrows. So, how did we get here?
Patrick Mahomes (No. 1 alternate) is busy prepping for the Super Bowl. Herbert (No. 2) declined due to injuries. C.J. Stroud (No. 3) also passed. Bo Nix (No. 4) had a procedure. That left Wilson and Maye suiting up.
It’s no shock Herbert needed the break. He fought through a tough season, dealing with ankle problems early on, then suffering another injury down the stretch.
While Herbert takes time to heal (and hopefully watches the Chargers upgrade his O-line), teammates Joey Bosa and Derwin James will still represent LA at the Pro Bowl.