The Los Angeles Chargers reportedly received trade requests from the New England Patriots and Minnesota Vikings for star quarterback Justin Herbert in the weeks leading up to the 2024 NFL Draft, but ultimately rejected them, as reported by ESPN on Thursday. Despite this, the Chargers went on to select Joe Alt, an offensive tackle from Notre Dame and an All-American, with the No. 5 pick in the draft. They also had the No. 37 and 69 picks on Day 2 of the draft.
One reason teams may have thought the Chargers would consider trading Herbert is the connection between new Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh and quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who played for Harbaugh at Michigan. However, it was made clear that Herbert is not on the trading block by Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz, who shut down any inquiries about it.
Herbert recently signed a five-year, $262.5 million extension that will start in the 2025 NFL season despite a finger injury ending his 2023 campaign after 13 games. Over his four-year NFL career, Herbert has been a standout performer, earning a Pro Bowl selection and being named the 2020 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. He has consistently put up impressive passing stats, averaging over 4,000 passing yards, nearly 30 passing touchdowns and a passer rating of 95.7 per season.
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