Justin Herbert’s Age, Contract, And 5 Key Milestones That Define His Elite NFL Career

As of the current date, December 23, 2025, Justin Herbert is 27 years old. The Los Angeles Chargers quarterback, a generational talent known for his cannon arm and elite athleticism, continues to reshape the narrative around the franchise as he navigates the prime of his career. His age is a crucial factor, as it places him among a select group of young, highly-paid NFL stars who are expected to lead their teams for the next decade. Born on March 10, 1998, Herbert’s journey from a standout at the University of Oregon to one of the highest-paid players in professional football has been remarkably fast. His performance in the ongoing 2025 NFL season, particularly the recent push for a playoff spot, highlights his maturity and ability to shoulder the immense pressure that comes with his record-breaking contract. This deep dive explores his complete biography, his current contract status, and the key milestones that have solidified his position as an elite quarterback in the league.

Justin Herbert: Complete Biography and Profile

Justin Patrick Herbert was born and raised in Eugene, Oregon, giving him deep roots in the Pacific Northwest. His path to the NFL was defined by his incredible physical tools and academic excellence, setting him apart long before he became a top draft pick.

• Full Name: Justin Patrick Herbert
• Date of Birth: March 10, 1998
• Current Age: 27 years old (as of December 23, 2025)
• Birthplace: Eugene, Oregon
• Height: 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m)
• Weight: 236 lbs (107 kg)
• High School: Sheldon High School (Eugene, OR)
• College: University of Oregon (Major: General Science)
• NFL Draft: 2020, Round 1, 6th Overall Pick (Los Angeles Chargers)
• Current Team: Los Angeles Chargers
• Pro Bowl Selections: 1 (2021)
• NFL Honors: 2020 AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year

Herbert’s college career with the Oregon Ducks was legendary. He finished his tenure holding school records for completions (827) and pass attempts (1,293), and his 95 career touchdown passes ranked second in Oregon history. He also famously matched a 4.01 GPA in General Science, showcasing his dedication both on and off the field. This combination of size, arm strength, and intellect made him a highly coveted prospect in the 2020 NFL Draft.

The Massive Contract: What Justin Herbert’s Age Means for the Chargers’ Future

One of the most significant pieces of news surrounding Justin Herbert is his landmark contract extension, which locks him in as the Los Angeles Chargers' franchise quarterback for the foreseeable future. In July 2023, prior to the start of the season, Herbert signed a five-year, $262.5 million contract extension. This monumental deal made him one of the highest-paid players in NFL history at the time, underscoring the Chargers' commitment to building a championship contender around his talent. The financial implications of this contract are massive, especially in the 2025 season.

Key Financial Details for the 2025 Season

The structure of Herbert’s contract is heavily weighted to the middle years, which is typical for massive NFL extensions.

• 2025 Base Salary: $15,000,000
• 2025 Option Bonus: $45,000,000
• 2025 Cap Hit: $37,354,495
• Total Contract Value: $262.5 million over five years

The $45 million option bonus in 2025 is a substantial cash flow event, highlighting that the Chargers are paying a premium to retain a quarterback who is just entering his athletic prime. At 27 years old, Herbert is seen as the foundation of the team’s long-term success, making this contract a strategic investment rather than a mere expense. The team’s ability to manage the salary cap around this large figure will be critical for acquiring the talent needed to compete for a Super Bowl.

Justin Herbert’s Elite Career Trajectory: The 5 Defining Milestones

Herbert’s career has been a rapid ascent, marked by numerous records and achievements that belie his young age and relatively short time in the league. These milestones are essential for understanding his current stature as an elite NFL quarterback.

1. Rookie of the Year Dominance (2020)

Drafted as the sixth overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, Herbert was thrust into the starting role unexpectedly in Week 2 and never looked back. He shattered rookie records, including most passing touchdowns (31) and most 300-yard passing games (8). His performance earned him the AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award, immediately establishing him as a premier talent.

2. The Record-Breaking 5,000-Yard Season (2021)

In his second season, Herbert continued his historic pace. He became the first quarterback in Chargers history to throw for over 5,000 yards (5,014) and set the franchise single-season record with 38 passing touchdowns. This campaign earned him his first Pro Bowl selection, a significant achievement for a player so early in his career.

3. Securing the Massive Extension (2023)

The five-year, $262.5 million contract extension signed in 2023 was a milestone that transcended mere statistics. It was a statement of faith from the Chargers organization and a recognition of his elite status among quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Joe Burrow. This move secured the long-term future of the franchise.

4. Leading the Chargers’ 2025 Playoff Push

The 2025 NFL season has been a testament to Herbert’s leadership and clutch play. With the Chargers fighting for a playoff spot late in the year, Herbert delivered key performances. A recent highlight was the Week 16 victory against the Dallas Cowboys on December 21, 2025, where he went 23 of 29 (a season-high 79%) for 300 yards, leading the team to a crucial 34-17 win. Earlier in the season, he also led a big win against the Kansas City Chiefs, showcasing his ability to win against division rivals.

5. The Jim Harbaugh Partnership

While not a statistical milestone, the arrival of a high-profile, Super Bowl-caliber coach like Jim Harbaugh is a defining moment for Herbert’s career. The partnership, which began in the 2025 season, signals a new era focused on maximizing the team’s potential. Herbert's ability to quickly adapt to a new offensive system under a demanding coach will be the final key to unlocking his full potential and achieving the ultimate goal: a Super Bowl championship.

Topical Authority: Herbert’s Impact on the NFL Landscape

Justin Herbert's age and contract status make him one of the most important entities in the modern NFL. His youth means he has a long runway for success, and his performance sets the bar for other young quarterbacks. The discussion around Herbert often involves comparisons to other young elite quarterbacks, such as Joe Burrow and Josh Allen. His incredible arm strength, which allows him to make throws few others can, combined with his high football IQ (a testament to his academic background), gives him a unique profile. At 27, Herbert is expected to continue building on his career totals, which already include nearly 18,000 passing yards and over 120 touchdowns through his first few seasons. His continued growth, especially in the postseason, is the main curiosity driving fans and analysts. The Chargers' success in the coming years will be directly tied to the performance of this young, highly-paid, and immensely talented signal-caller.

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