Justin Herbert: Worst Chargers QB fantasy season since Ryan Leaf

In the world of fantasy football, Justin Herbert is experiencing a season that mirrors the struggles of former Chargers quarterback Ryan Leaf, who played for the team 26 years ago. As the 2000 Chargers were the worst team in franchise history, finishing with a 1-15 record, Herbert is now the unquestioned starter for the same franchise. The comparison, however, is not as straightforward as it initially seems.

While Leaf's career ended within a year of being drafted, Herbert is currently in his prime and remains the Chargers' starting quarterback. Nevertheless, the numbers he has produced this season are eerily similar to those of Leaf, raising concerns about whether Herbert and this offense can turn their fortunes around. Herbert has averaged 199 passing yards per game, but his performance has been marred by a dreadful 0.55 TD-to-interception ratio and has taken 31 sacks.

In comparison, Leaf, during his nine starts in 2000, averaged 192 passing yards, had a worse 0.63 TD-to-interception ratio, and was sacked 29 times.

Herbert is part of a long line of Chargers franchise quarterbacks who emerged from the team's turn-of-the-century mistakes. Alongside Philip Rivers and Drew Brees, Herbert has started all but 12 games in the past 25 seasons. Despite the concerns, there is no indication that Herbert is past his prime or that this will be a long-term issue.

However, many fantasy managers who drafted Herbert have given up on him, and for valid reasons. The ultimate question remains: will Herbert continue to post Leaf-like numbers for the rest of the season, or will his talent eventually shine through? Their upcoming Monday Night matchup against the Baltimore Ravens will provide an answer to this question.