The Los Angeles Chargers are back in the playoffs, but former NFL guard Kyle Long is focused on what he believes to be a troubling trend for the AFC West team.
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The three-time Pro Bowler, who now works for CBS Sports as an analyst, highlighted the lack of surrounding help after the Chargers lost 20-16 to the Texas on Saturday afternoon.
"Justin Herbert is unbelievable," Long said. "And just like I talk about Joe Burrow in Cincinnati, It's almost criminal the lack of help he has when the chips are down in Los Angeles.
"The protection isn't there, the ability to keep him off the turf, it's not good enough. And that's evidenced in them not being around in the postseason."
"Justin Herbert is unbelievable ... it's almost criminal the lack of help he has."
- @Ky1eLong pic.twitter.com/yvP87DQgF4
— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) December 28, 2025
According to StatMuse, the Chargers have allowed the fourth-most sacks this season (56). This ranks behind the Vikings (58), Jets (59), and Raiders (61). The offensive line, which has dealt with numerous injuries, has only kept Herbert upright during one game. They did not allow a sack against the lowly Cowboys defense.
The overtime win against the Eagles, for comparison, featured the Chargers allowing a season-high seven sacks. The Chargers also allowed six sacks during a win against the Titans.
Last weekend's game against the Texans featured Herbert under constant pressure. As Long noted, the protection was not there as the Texans sacked Herbert five times and hit him several other times. Penalties also negated three sacks.
This unit pressured the former Oregon quarterback on 38.1% of his dropbacks while also holding the rushing attack in check. Yet, Herbert nearly led a comeback win while making big plays. This includes a 28-yard run on third-and-14, which set up the Chargers' first touchdown.
The lack of protection is not the only area in which the Chargers were lacking. Pro Bowl kicker Cameron Dicker missed an extra point and a 32-yard field goal. Rookie Oronde Gadsden II failed to corral a pass at the goal line, which bounced into the hands of Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair.
If the Chargers hope to make a deep playoff run, they will have to find a way to better protect Herbert and make plays. Herculean efforts rarely work out in January, especially for teams that have to travel and play in winter conditions.
