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Chargers QB Justin Herbert shows updated throwing mechanics at OTAs

Over the course of the 2022 season, the Los Angeles Chargers had their struggles. From injuries to the offensive scheme, it wasn’t an easy road to the playoffs — and someone whose production was reduced because of this was quarterback Justin Herbert.

Since entering the league in 2020, Herbert has stood out among young quarterbacks, touting impressive stat lines, athleticism and an elite pocket presence. In 2021, he remained one of the top five QBs in the league in nearly every possible stat. The expectation was that production would continue to increase, but with a rib injury, an injured roster and a scheme that failed to highlight his best qualities, the production dropped. Yet through these highs and lows in his first three years, one thing has been consistent: his throwing mechanics.

For his first three seasons, Herbert often used a low-release, sidearm throwing motion. It continued into the 2022 season and could have been a byproduct of his rib injury or just a general coaching strategy on Shane Day’s part. As we watch Herbert in OTAs this summer, we can see a clear change in the way he passes the football. His release is higher, the arc of the pass is lifted and thankfully the velocity is still elite.

This is very good news for Chargers fans. With a healthy wide receiver corps and an exciting new scheme from offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, the uptick in Herbert’s production should be highly noticeable. Even at 6-foot-6, Herbert struggled with batted passes because of his lower release and a more predictable offense in 2022. The higher release should reduce the amount of batted balls. On top of this, Moore’s projected offensive scheme will allow Herbert to increase his yards per play.

Many elite quarterbacks in the NFL end up working on their mechanics and having success afterward. We saw this happen when Josh Allen had the opportunity to focus on his mechanics with now Giants head coach Brian Daboll. Immediately after working on his mechanics, Allen was having MVP-level seasons and leading his team to the playoffs year in and year out. Daboll continued this success by elevating the mechanics and production of Daniel Jones in 2022. This type of work bodes well for the future of the Chargers franchise QB.

Story originally appeared on Chargers Wire