Jim Harbaugh Says Justin Herbert's Biggest Weakness Is 'Those Around Him' on Chargers

Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh opened training camp by telling reporters that quarterback Justin Herbert's biggest weaknesses are those comprising his supporting cast.

“Justin’s biggest weakness is those around him that he's counting on offense. Us coaches, and players on offense. We got to get to Justin Herbert’s level," Harbaugh said Thursday, according to ESPN's Lindsey Thiry.

The Chargers opened their second camp of the Harbaugh era in El Segundo on Thursday.

Harbaugh's comments come amid uncertainty in the Chargers wide receiver room.

The head coach gave his press conference minutes before ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that Mike Williams' agent informed the Chargers on Wednesday night that the veteran wide receiver would be retiring from the NFL.

Williams and the Chargers reportedly agreed to a one-year deal worth as much as $6 million to bring the wideout back to Los Angeles in March.

Both Herbert and Harbaugh expressed excitement at the time about the return of a wide receiver who had averaged 15.6 yards per catch through seven seasons with the Chargers.

"Justin's reaction, that's the thing that makes me the most excited, most happy. He was excited... The rapport that those two have bode well for us," Harbaugh said in April, per Chargers.com's Eric Smith.

Williams stepping away from the game leaves Ladd McConkey, who led the Chargers with 1,149 receiving yards during his rookie season, as the clear No. 1 receiver on the depth chart.

The Bolts also have returning third-year wideout Quentin Johnston and 2025 draft picks Tre Harris and KeAndre Lambert-Smith, although Harris has yet to report to camp amid a contract dispute.

Williams' departure ultimately leaves the Chargers without a proven No. 2 option next to McConkey.

The Bolts are coming off a campaign during which the offense ranked 19th in the NFL with 213.5 passing yards per game despite Herbert's NFL-best ratio of touchdowns (23) to interceptions (3).

A breakout rookie season from Harris could help offensive coordinator Greg Roman and wide receivers coach Sanjay Lal build a stronger passing game around Herbert this fall.