In the weeks leading up to the 2024 NFL Draft, the Los Angeles Chargers reportedly received trade requests from the New England Patriots and Minnesota Vikings for star quarterback Justin Herbert, but ultimately rejected them, as reported by ESPN on Thursday. Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz made it clear that trading Herbert was never an option for the team, shutting down any inquiries about it.
Despite the trade requests, the Chargers went on to select Joe Alt, an offensive tackle from Notre Dame and an All-American, with the No. 5 pick in the draft. They also had the No. 37 and 69 picks on Day 2 of the draft. Both the Patriots (who drafted Drake Maye from North Carolina) and the Vikings (who drafted J.J. McCarthy from Michigan) chose quarterbacks on Day 1 of the draft, indicating a potential need at the position.
One reason teams may have thought the Chargers would consider trading Herbert is the connection between new Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh and quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who played for Harbaugh at Michigan. However, the Chargers made it clear that Herbert is not on the trading block.
Herbert recently signed a five-year, $262.5 million extension that will start in the 2025 NFL season. Despite a finger injury ending his 2023 campaign after 13 games, Herbert has been a standout performer in the league, earning a Pro Bowl selection and being named the 2020 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. He has consistently put up impressive passing stats, averaging over 4,000 passing yards, nearly 30 passing touchdowns, and a passer rating of 95.7 per season over his four-year NFL career.