Chargers Reveal Preseason Plan for Justin Herbert in 49ers Matchup

Justin Herbert, the star quarterback for the Los Angeles Chargers, will see limited action in their preseason game against the San Francisco 49ers, according to head coach Jim Harbaugh. The Chargers' starters will play the opening series, after which the backups will take over and play the remainder of the contest. Herbert expressed his excitement about getting meaningful reps before the 2026 regular-season campaign, stating, "It's an exciting opportunity to go play in a football game. It's been awhile, so I'm looking forward to it."

Harbaugh's new offensive coordinator, Mike McDaniel, is also enthusiastic about Herbert's first in-game action in the new system. "I'm excited to have the first out of the way," McDaniel remarked. "I think there's a big thing for players—they're human beings and haven't played a real game in six months. Going through warmups then taking it out and communicating in a new language is very exciting. I'm sure live speed, I'll want him to do a couple of things that I won't be able to see him do because he'll be out of there."