yardbarker
LAs franchise QB could be set to benefit greatly from the new author of the Bolts offense.
Los Angeles Chargers QB Justin Herbert has never been one of the first quarterbacks off the fantasy board in drafts.
The Bolts franchise signal caller has brought a decent floor year-to-year, but he hasnt blown the top off of a season for fantasy owners yet.
But Herbert could be set for a strong year in 2026 and fantasy players would be wise to take notice.
At least, thats what ESPNs panel of experts seems to be saying.
ESPNs fantasy football panel of 10 experts listed their one sleeper at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, and tight end, and Justin Herbert got the most mentions at the QB position with four.
Jaxson Dart got two, Tyler Shough got two, and Brock Purdy and C.J.
Stroud got one a piece.
ESPN defined a sleeper as [a] player who is being overlooked and will outperform his average draft position (ADP) in 2026.
And there is plenty of reason for optimism for Herbert to have one of the best years of his career in 2026.
Herbert will have both starting tackles in Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater back in action after the duo missed most of the 2025 season with injuries.
New center Tyler Biadasz provides an experienced an reliable veteran presence in the middle of LAs line.
The Chargers have plenty of ascending talent at the skill positions in Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, Tre Harris, Oronde Gadsden II, and Omarion Hampton.
And new OC Mike McDaniel has been working with Herbert on his footwork and quickening his release.
That hints at potentially a larger number of quicker, higher percentage throws and an increased completion percentage, as well as Herbert getting a welcome reprieve from ending up on his back as much as he did in 2025.
For those looking to find their quarterback late in their fantasy drafts and Herbert is still on the board, he might help deliver some league titles to those willing to buy into his ample potential this fall.
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