Justin Herbert MVP Watch: Is He the League’s Best After Chargers’ 3-0 Start?

The Los Angeles Chargers are off to a blistering 3-0 start in the 2025 season, and a significant reason for their success is the stellar play of quarterback Justin Herbert. After a thrilling Week 3 comeback victory over the Denver Broncos, the MVP chatter surrounding Herbert is only getting louder. But is it justified? Is Herbert truly playing at an MVP level, and is he even the frontrunner for the award?

Clutch Performances Define a Champion: Herbert’s Week 3 performance against the Broncos was a masterclass in late-game execution. Trailing in the fourth quarter, he orchestrated a game-winning drive, showcasing his poise under pressure, pinpoint accuracy, and ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs. This isn’t an isolated incident; Herbert has consistently demonstrated clutch performances throughout his career, separating him from many of his peers.

Elite Arm Talent and Decision-Making: Herbert possesses arguably the strongest arm in the NFL. He can make every throw on the field, from deep bombs down the sideline to tight-window throws over the middle. However, raw arm strength alone doesn’t win MVPs. What sets Herbert apart is his improved decision-making. He’s reading defenses more effectively, minimizing turnovers, and consistently making the right reads to keep the Chargers’ offense moving.

Impact on the Chargers’ Offense: Herbert’s presence elevates the entire Chargers’ offense. He makes his receivers better, opens up running lanes for the running backs, and forces opposing defenses to account for his dual-threat ability. The numbers speak for themselves: the Chargers are consistently near the top of the league in offensive efficiency and scoring. This is largely attributable to Herbert’s influence.

The Competition: A Crowded Field: While Herbert is undoubtedly playing at an MVP level, he faces stiff competition. Other quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Joe Burrow are also putting up impressive numbers. The MVP race is a marathon, not a sprint, and consistency throughout the season will be crucial. Furthermore, factors beyond individual performance, such as team record and narrative, often play a significant role in the voting process.

The Verdict: A Legitimate Contender: After three weeks, Justin Herbert has firmly established himself as a legitimate MVP contender. His clutch performances, elite arm talent, improved decision-making, and positive impact on the Chargers’ offense make him a force to be reckoned with. While the competition is fierce, Herbert has the talent and the team around him to make a serious run at the MVP award. Keep an eye on Herbert as the season progresses; he has the potential to deliver even more spectacular performances and solidify his status as one of the league’s best players.