Tom Brady hasn't taken to the broadcasting world as quickly as he took to the quarterback position, but his latest comments on Justin Herbert are sure to win LA Chargers fans over.
Brady, who calls his first Chargers game of the year on Sunday against the Washington Commanders, had nothing but great things to say about Herbert during FOX's pre-game show. The seven-time Super Bowl Champion popped into the pre-game show since he was already in LA, and said exactly what Chargers fans have been saying all along about Herbert.
"If they protect Justin Herbert, he's the best passer in the league," Brady said. "Get him help with quick plays and screens, and support him with the run game to avoid unnecessary hits."
Tom Brady says Justin Herbert is the best passer in the NFL when the Chargers protect him
Chargers fans have long argued that Herbert has the most arm talent in the sport and it's hard not to support that claim while watching the tape. Herbert makes throws that most quarterbacks would only dream of, and usually does it while his back is against the wall.
Unfortunately, not giving Herbert enough help has been a bit of a trend throughout his career. The offensive line is the culprit this year as the Chargers are battling a deadly mixture of injuries and offseason complacency.
Herbert isn't just great with a clean pocket, though. He continues to push the limits of what Chargers fans thought were possible. Week 3's masterclass against the Denver Broncos was the perfect example; Herbert turned in one of the best games of his career despite facing a career-high pressure rate.
Unfortunately, Herbert is still only human and the following week the Chargers allowed a new career-high in pressure rate. He wasn't as effective against the New York Giants, leading to a disappointing first loss of the season for the Bolts.
That loss doesn't change anything about what Brady said, though. The greatest quarterback in NFL history hit the nail on the head. Herbert is the best passer in the sport when the Chargers give him even the most basic of protection.
If there is anyone in the world who knows what a great quarterback looks like, it's Tom Brady. As the tiring debates around Herbert undoubtedly continue, everyone should keep Brady's comments fresh in the back of their minds. It's really simpler than Herbert's naysayers want to admit.