Justin Herbert Played Just Three Snaps. Chargers Fans, What Was That?

Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert was on the field for Thursday night’s preseason game against the 49ers, but if you blinked, you probably missed it. Herbert’s exhibition debut, his first with Mike McDaniel calling plays, lasted just three snaps as the Chargers went three-and-out on their very first offensive possession. Talk about a quick night!

The Three-Snap Rollercoaster

Seriously, what even happened out there? The Bolts got the ball and Omarion Hampton promptly lost a yard on the first play from scrimmage. Not exactly setting the world on fire, right? Then Herbert tried to get something going, rolling to his left and connecting with tight end Charlie Kolar for a respectable 9-yard gain. Okay, a little momentum, maybe?

But then came third-and-2. Everyone’s looking for that first down, right? Herbert dropped back and launched a downfield pass to Ladd McConkey, but it was just completely off. Incomplete. Ball at the Los Angeles 43, and the club decided to punt. Just like that, Herbert’s night was done. Trey Lance came in to relieve him on the Chargers’ second drive later in the first quarter.

One Drive, Zero Splash

It’s just preseason, we know, but when your star QB is on the field for a grand total of three plays, it certainly gets you talking. Three snaps and a punt. That’s the whole story. You’ve got to wonder if Chargers fans watching at home even had time to grab a snack before Herbert was back on the sidelines. We’re all eager to see how the Chargers look with McDaniel as play-caller, and this tiny glimpse just leaves us with more questions than answers heading into the season.

So, what’s next for Herbert and the Chargers? We’ll have to wait for the next preseason game to see if he gets more than a blink-and-you-miss-it appearance. Chargers fans have to be looking forward to seeing their main man actually get some meaningful reps and show off what this offense can do.

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Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.