EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — This year marks a fresh start for the Los Angeles Chargers in various aspects.

The Chargers have brought in Jim Harbaugh as their new head coach, moved into a completely new training facility, and added 23 new players to their roster as they head into Week 1. Yet, one major element remains unchanged: starting quarterback Justin Herbert.

As Herbert enters his fifth season with the Chargers, it seems this is the first time since his rookie year that the wider expectations for him and the team are notably lower outside of their practice facility.

“We have the talent. Now we just need to give it our best effort and demonstrate our abilities,” Chargers wide receiver Quentin Johnston told YSL News Sports. “We’ve got every piece required in this locker room; it’s time to show what we’ve got.”

The Chargers’ performance this season will greatly depend on Herbert’s performance and his ability to stay healthy.

Last year, Herbert was put on injured reserve after he broke his right index finger, causing him to miss the last four regular-season games. The Chargers struggled in those games, losing all four and ultimately terminating head coach Brandon Staley as they finished the season with a disappointing 5-12 record.

This season, Herbert dealt with plantar fasciitis in his right foot, which prevented him from participating fully in training camp and the preseason. Nonetheless, he has stated that he has recovered and feels completely fit as the team prepares for their first game against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 1.

“I’m feeling much better,” Herbert commented. “We’ve overcome that hurdle and are looking ahead.”

Harbaugh has been highly complimentary of Herbert since taking over as head coach. When Herbert returned to practice after his injury last month, Harbaugh humorously stated that it felt like he had heard angels singing.

On Wednesday, when YSL News Sports inquired about Herbert’s growth as a leader in his fifth season, Harbaugh praised the quarterback’s dedication and recalled an incident in August when Herbert and several teammates got stuck in an elevator.

“He’s one of the best leaders I’ve ever encountered. Right from the start, he’s been a stabilizing force. He’s the hardest worker, a tone-setter, a strategist, and a performer,” Harbaugh expressed. “He leads by example. Reflecting on the elevator situation, it’s no surprise that he was the last one to exit while allowing 14 others to go ahead of him. That’s just Justin Herbert. He’s possibly the finest leader I’ve ever seen.”

With 17,223 career passing yards, Herbert holds the record for the most yards thrown by a quarterback in their first four seasons. As he enters his fifth year, the Chargers are starting a new chapter, but Herbert remains pivotal; his health and performance will significantly impact the team’s prospects this season.

“I see it as a tremendous opportunity,” Herbert stated. “We’re fully aware of how last year unfolded. We know where we faltered and how we arrived at this point. It’s essential to learn from those experiences. Now, we move forward and tackle this coming year with determination.”

Follow YSL News Sports’ Tyler Dragon on X @TheTylerDragon.