Jim Harbaugh has high expectations for Justin Herbert with Los Angeles Chargers

Jim Harbaugh took the Los Angeles Chargers job with the proper quarterback in mind: Justin Herbert, the one that already resides in the building.

Herbert is Harbaugh’s “crown jewel,” as the new head coach put it. Fresh off a national title at Michigan and his return to the NFL now reality, Harbaugh has one of the best quarterback situations in the league.

Knowing his work with guys like Andrew Luck at Stanford and Alex Smith and Colin Kaepernick with the 49ers before his run at Michigan, particularly JJ McCarthy the last two-plus years, this is quite the pairing.

“I mean, how could you not know about him,” Harbaugh said on The Herd. “I mean, watching him on TV and watching tape, I mean, he’s an incredible player and yeah, knew a lot about him. Top — as good as they get in the National Football League and he’s a crown jewel. I mean, in every way. You know, he’s got it, he’s tough, he’s got the arm talent and leadership. Just games he’s played, I mean, just marveled, you know? I’ve got my young son, Jack, I mean, let’s just watch this guy and enjoy.”

Herbert dealt with injuries last year and went just 5-8 as a starter. But, he’s been quite productive over his first four years in the league and led the Chargers to the playoffs in 2022.

Over the course of four years, Herbert has 17,223 yards, 114 touchdowns, 42 interceptions and a 66.6% completion percentage.

“The thing that’s jumping out is just this enormous talent,” Harbaugh said. “I’m waking up real early in the morning these days, going, ‘I gotta bring it.’ I gotta bring my A-game in every sense of the word. I want to get a coaching staff put together and hired that is gonna be worthy of coaching not only Justin, but Derwin and all the guys.”

If Harbaugh knows how to do anything, it’s win. With a national championship and Super Bowl visit under his belt, Harbaugh has seen success at every turn. He believes he can find similar success with the Chargers.

“It’s gonna be a team effort all the way,” Harbaugh said. “I’m excited about the challenge. Let’s see if I’m man enough and a good enough coach so that all [Herbert’s] hard work can be realized. I want to work really hard so that his hard work is going to be realized – Justin and every player on our football team.”