Who Should I Start? Sam Darnold or Justin Herbert

Tuesday, April 7, 9:55 PM

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert is coming off his best fantasy season since 2021, and there's a real chance that he could continue to trend upward going forward. Herbert was the overall QB10 in fantasy football last season, tallying 26 passing touchdowns but throwing 13 interceptions. It was his highest interception since, ironically, that aforementioned 2021 campaign. Managers should be optimistic about the future outlook of the first-round pick, given the state of the offense. For starters, the Chargers hired offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, a potential play-calling mastermind who can maximize the potential of his players. The Chargers also made a concerted effort to bolster their league-worst offensive line. Now, Herbert will have Cole Strange and Tyler Biadasz in front of him, and he should also get star tackles Rashawn Slater (knee) and Joe Alt (ankle) back from injury. The only glaring subtraction is wide receiver Keenan Allen, but Herbert should still have plenty of reliable targets in Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, and Oronde Gadsden III. With a solidified offense around him, Herbert can be a top-10 fantasy quarterback with top-five upside in 2026 and beyond. He's an intriguing target in dynasty leagues this offseason.