May 26, 2026, 5:52 PM ET

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert ended the quietest fantasy football dry spell at the position in 2025, posting his first top-10 positional finish (QB9 at 18.3 FPPG) in three seasons. Long seen as a solid yet unspectacular option, Herbert's rise in fantasy production largely came from finishing second at the position in rushing yards (498) as he ran for his life behind one of the worst offensive lines in the NFL due to Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater's season-ending injuries at offensive tackle. Those two's projected return in 2026 also comes with a change of scenery from Herbert's playcaller; Greg Roman was dispatched after a dismal playoff showing against the Patriots. Ex-Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel was tabbed to replace him. McDaniel, one of the most clever play-designers in the NFL, guided Miami to two seasons of at least 23.8 PPG before injuries to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa mounted, so many are excited to see what he can do with the "6-foot-6" dual-threat. Plus, the Chargers have a cabinet of weapons, including running back Omarion Hampton, wide receivers Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, and Tre Harris, and tight ends Oronde Gadsden II and David Njoku. Especially after investing four draft picks into offensive line depth, the Chargers seem primed to thrive even if their star tackle duo struggles with health again. While a challenging AFC West schedule, which also left L.A. at a 24-day net rest disadvantage compared to its opponents, is an obstacle, reasons for optimism around one of the NFL's most talented passers are abundant. In fantasy football, Herbert is currently in a defined third tier of quarterbacks by both Sleeper ADP (83.7) and in RotoBaller's 2026 PPR rankings (82nd; QB8), but it wouldn't be overly shocking if this is the year Herbert puts all the pieces together and legitimately contends for the NFL MVP award.--Austin Swaim