Justin Herbert enters Year 5 tutoring under his fourth offensive coordinator.
Learning new schemes is old hat for the quarterback after working under Shane Steichen, Joe Lombardi (two years) and Kellen Moore. Now Herbert is set to play in Greg Roman's offense under coach Jim Harbaugh. According to new center Bradley Bozeman, Herbert is already immersed in the scheme.
"He acts like he's been in the system for 10 years," Bozeman recently told the team's website. "He dives so deep into the system and knew it so well before anyone else could even grasp it. It's been impressive to see him put people in the right positions and just elevate people around him."
Bozeman spent four seasons in Baltimore to open his career, three of which came with Roman running the offense. The Chargers brought in the center this offseason in part to aid with the transition to the new scheme.
"I played under G-Ro for four years in Baltimore, so I know what he's about and what he likes to do," Bozeman said. "I have familiarity with (Chargers offensive line coach Mike) Devlin and a bunch of the coaches over here. And I know what the Harbaugh family is about and how hard-nosed they are and how they are winners. I want to win a Super Bowl and do a lot of really great things. We're only given a sliver of time to play football and I want to maximize my opportunity."
The Chargers completely overhauled the offense this offseason, shaking up the receiver room and running back corps and reshuffling the offensive line, adding Bozeman and first-round tackle Joe Alt. Los Angeles is counting on Herbert to lead the way through the break-in phase.
"It was a great transition with Justin," Bozeman added. "He's a hell of a quarterback and you notice that before we even put on the pads yet. The guy is so serious about what he does and I am all for that. It's been great getting to work with him and build that rapport. My goal was to come in and try and be as perfect as I could to earn that respect and have it be mutual. It's been a good start."
The Chargers hope the good start continues when training camp practices kick off on July 24.