Justin Herbert threw his first passes in team drills since May 27 during Day 2 of the Chargers’ minicamp, signaling a cautious ramp-up ahead of the 2026 season. The Los Angeles Chargers practiced Wednesday at The Bolt, with quarterback Justin Herbert and safety Derwin James Jr. standing out in 7-on-7 drills. Meanwhile, rookie Brenen Thompson left practice with trainers after a standout contested catch, raising questions about his readiness for training camp.
Chargers Adjust Herbert’s Workload to Preserve Arm Health for 2026
Herbert’s return to throwing in team settings marked a deliberate shift in the Chargers’ approach to his preparation. After skipping two organized team activities (OTAs) on June 2 and June 8, Herbert participated in 7-on-7 drills Wednesday, completing his first three passes to Omarion Hampton, Kimani Vidal, and Oronde Gadsden. The accuracy was sharp—until a pair of drops by receivers, not Herbert’s fault—before he finished with two more completions, including a 15-yarder to Scott Matlock.
The New York Times reported that Herbert’s reduced throwing volume is a strategic move by coach Jim Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel. According to Harbaugh, the focus is on footwork and arm maintenance: "We have tried it a different way this year, and I think it’s smarter." The Chargers are prioritizing Herbert’s longevity, especially after he led the NFL in quarterback hits last season. McDaniel, known for his meticulous attention to detail, has been watching Herbert’s feet more than his throws, signaling a shift toward anticipation and quicker releases.
Herbert himself downplayed the workload change: "The throws will still be there," he told reporters. "We’ve got plenty of time in camp." The approach aligns with a broader trend among veteran quarterbacks balancing durability with peak performance. For a player entering his seventh season, the Chargers’ caution is a calculated risk—one that could pay off if Herbert avoids the arm fatigue that plagued him in 2025.
Derwin James Jr. Reinforces Defensive Leadership with Standout Minicamp Performance
While Herbert worked on precision, Derwin James Jr. delivered the defensive highlight. The All-Pro safety intercepted Trey Lance on a deep pass during 7-on-7 drills, a play that underscored his ball-hawking instincts. James’ presence was felt beyond statistics: both head coach Mike McDaniel and defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary praised his energy and influence.
"You want 11 Derwin James’s on the field," O’Leary said. McDaniel added: "The energy that Derwin brings every day inspires people." James’ interception came after he’d already made an impact in Day 1 of minicamp, where he recorded another takeaway against Lance. His leadership extends beyond tape—James’ work ethic sets the tone for a defense that lost key players like Odafe Oweh to free agency.
The Chargers’ investment in James—now on a $18 million deal through 2027—reflects their belief in his two-way dominance. With the team’s secondary in flux, James isn’t just a cornerstone; he’s the emotional anchor. His ability to elevate teammates was on full display Wednesday, reinforcing why he’s the face of the defense.
Brenen Thompson’s Early Injury Raises Concerns About Rookie Depth Chart Prospects
Thompson’s arrival in Los Angeles was supposed to bring speed and versatility to Mike McDaniel’s offense. On Wednesday, he delivered both—making a contested 50-yard catch in 7-on-7 drills before leaving practice with trainers. Yahoo Sports reported the incident, noting Thompson’s play was "impressive" but his exit "raised questions" about his readiness.
The rookie’s speed (4.26-second 40-yard dash) and route-running ability make him a potential sleeper in McDaniel’s system. However, his early setback highlights the risks for late-round picks in their first pro season. The Chargers have three established receivers ahead of Thompson—Quentin Johnston, Ladd McConkey, and Tre Harris—but McDaniel’s offense thrives on quick, precise throws to speedy targets. Thompson’s injury, if minor, could delay his climb up the depth chart; if serious, it might push him into a backup role sooner than expected.
For now, the focus remains on recovery. The Chargers will monitor Thompson’s progress as they prepare for training camp, where his role could hinge on how quickly he returns to full health. His exit Wednesday serves as a reminder: even the most promising rookies aren’t immune to the physical demands of the NFL.
Chargers’ Quiet Offseason Strategy Aims for Controlled Preparation
The Chargers’ three-day minicamp concludes Thursday, after which the team will take a five-week break before training camp begins in late July. Herbert’s gradual return to throwing—and James’ continued dominance—set the tone for a summer where the focus will be on refining the offense and shoring up the defense.
- Herbert’s arm health: Will the reduced workload pay off, or will he need further adjustments as camp nears?
- Thompson’s recovery: Can he regain playing time before training camp, or will he start the season on the sideline?
- Defensive depth: With Oweh gone and Genesis Smith still unproven, how will the Chargers cover Lane, Chase, and the league’s elite pass-rushers?
The Chargers’ offseason has been about controlled preparation, not fireworks. If Herbert stays healthy and James continues to set the tone, Los Angeles could enter 2026 with a clearer path to contention—even if the road to that point has been quieter than expected.
The Chargers’ minicamp revealed a team prioritizing fundamentals over flash. For now, the focus is on building toward a season where every throw—and every tackle—counts.
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