Global Courant 2023-04-29 09:30:35
COSTA MESA, Calif. (AP) — The Los Angeles Chargers exercised their fifth-year option on Justin Herbert on Friday as they work to sign their franchise quarterback to a long-term deal.
Meanwhile, general manager Tom Telesco said the Chargers would not pick up the option for linebacker Kenneth Murray.
The deadline for teams to pick up the fifth-year option on picks from the first round of the 2020 draft class is Tuesday.
The sixth overall selection in that draft, Herbert is the first quarterback in NFL history to throw for at least 4,000 yards in each of his first three seasons. Since joining the league, he is second in completions (1,316), third in passing yards (14,089), and sixth in passing touchdowns (94).
Selected to the Pro Bowl in 2021, Herbert’s fifth-year option is worth $29.5 million, the same as Joe Burrow of Cincinnati, who was the top pick in 2020. Tua Tagovailoa of Miami, who was one pick for Herbert also had his option increased to $23.17 million.
Herbert, who last season led the Chargers to their first playoff appearance since 2018, was second in the league in completions (477) and passing yards (4,739) despite a week 2 rib injury and then a torn labrum in his left hand. shoulder throw in week 17. He underwent shoulder surgery at the end of January and is expected to be ready for the start of training camp.
Murray’s option would have been worth $11.73 million. Telesco said not taking up the option was more of a salary cap decision. With Herbert expected to sign a major overtime at some point, the Bolts also have major contracts with receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, as well as linebackers Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack. With the exception of Herbert, the other four players have salary caps of at least $32 million each by 2024.
Los Angeles traded with New England to advance to the first round to take Murray with the 23rd overall selection in 2020.
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