With Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert sidelined by a foot injury, backup quarterback Easton Stick is tasked with leading the team's offense during the preseason. While Stick strives to play like Herbert, he acknowledges the challenges of replicating the star quarterback's abilities.
In a joint scrimmage against the Los Angeles Rams, Chargers backup quarterback Easton Stick attempted to emulate the playstyle of his star teammate, Justin Herbert. However, Stick recognizes the significant challenges of replicating the talents of one of the NFL's most gifted passers.
"Once the ball is snapped, I can't play like Justin," Stick explained. "There are very few people in the world that can do what he does. So after the ball is snapped, we're just playing. But I think it's trying to make sure I'm communicating the way Justin will, so everybody's on the same page."
Chargers Backup QB Easton Stick Draws Inspiration from Justin Herbert, While Recognizing the Difficulty of Emulating Him
Herbert is currently wearing a walking boot for two weeks due to a plantar fascia issue in his right foot. While he is expected to return in time for the regular season, his absence has left the Chargers' offense struggling to find its footing.
The team's new offensive coordinator, Greg Roman, has implemented a simplified playbook to allow players to focus on executing fundamentals and fulfilling their assignments. Roman believes this approach will facilitate player evaluation.
"We're not trying to manage scenarios," Roman said. "Orchestrating sequences of events is coming. That's called the regular season. Right now, what we're trying to do is get great work in, evaluate some of the younger guys and really sharpen our tools."
Along with a new playbook, the Chargers have undergone significant roster turnover this offseason, including the addition of two new starting receivers, two new starting tight ends, two new running backs, and a new right tackle. These changes, coupled with Herbert's absence, have presented challenges for the team's offense.
"The rest of the offense has to be on point," said Roman, explaining the team's approach without Herbert. "And then Justin's got to figure out some of the chemistry things while we get caught up. But no, I don't see it as a problem. I really don't. These guys are instinctive guys. And it's going to be great to get them all together, obviously. That's always good. But that's life in the NFL."
Herbert's recent injury highlights the importance of having a reliable backup quarterback, as Stick will be tasked with keeping the Chargers' offense afloat until their star quarterback returns.
"Nothing beats reps," said Stick, emphasizing the importance of playing time for his development. "You can sit there, watch tape and talk about it and all that stuff, but it's football, and it never goes exactly how you expect it to. So nothing beats the reps, and I'm grateful to be getting those right now."
Stick's performance over the next few weeks will be crucial as the Chargers prepare for the regular season without Herbert. While filling the void left by a player of Herbert's caliber is a tall order, Stick remains committed to pushing the offense forward and ensuring the team is ready for the challenges ahead.
