Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. had some high praise for Justin Herbert ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers. However, his assessment of the quarterback's current play might leave NFL fans wondering what he has been watching.
"Herbert, man, he's playing out of his mind."
Will Anderson Jr. on facing Justin Herbert and the Chargers. pic.twitter.com/e0kbBySPrC
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) November 4, 2026
“He is still a really great quarterback in this league… he is still a very respectable player in this league. We have a ton of respect for him. We know what to expect a little bit. But Herbert, man, he's playing out of his mind.”
The first part of Anderson's comments are fine. But the last part of the praise isn't factually correct at this point in Herbert's career.
The Chargers are 0-7, and Herbert has struggled to find consistency in Mike McDaniel's offense. He has looked uncomfortable in the scheme and made questionable decisions. He and McDaniel are failing to get the most out of an offense that was expected to take a step forward.
Los Angeles now faces another difficult test against a Houston defense that has given Herbert problems in the past. Anderson and his teammates will have an opportunity to make those struggles continue, especially if the Chargers cannot find a way to get their quarterback comfortable. It's been a rough season for Houston, but this can be a bounceback game.
The Chargers need Herbert to look more like the quarterback Anderson described, but that has not happened through seven games. Until McDaniel finds a way to get his quarterback comfortable and playing with confidence, opposing defenses will have every reason to believe they can make life difficult for Los Angeles.