From Eugene to NFL Stardom
Justin Herbert’s rise from a promising high school athlete to the sixth overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft is a story marked by resilience, family support, and a deep connection to his roots in Eugene, Oregon.
Early Life and High School Challenges
Born in 1998 in Eugene, Herbert grew up in a family steeped in athletic tradition. However, his path to stardom was not straightforward. He faced a significant setback during his junior year of high school when he broke his leg, a serious injury that sidelined him and limited his recruitment to only two Division I FBS offers. After recovering, Herbert seized the opportunity to play for the Oregon Ducks, taking over as starting quarterback midway through his freshman year. His impressive performance set the stage for his future, leading him to become a local hero and a household name in the NFL.
A Family of Athletes
Herbert is not the only athlete in his family. His father, Mark Herbert, played football at the University of Montana before switching to track and field due to injuries. Mark’s experience shaped his parenting style, instilling a sense of humility and hard work in his children. He often reminded them, “College football’s a lot harder than people realize,” emphasizing the importance of dedication and perseverance.
Herbert’s older brother, Mitchell, carved out his own path as a solid player at Montana State, eventually becoming an orthopedic surgeon. The youngest brother, Patrick, followed in Justin’s footsteps, playing tight end at Oregon and later signing with the Jacksonville Jaguars as an undrafted free agent. Patrick’s tenacity on the field earned him praise from coaches, who noted his toughness and commitment.
The Influence of Grandparents
The Herbert family’s athletic heritage extends to their grandfathers. Justin’s maternal grandfather, Rich Schwab, was a wide receiver for the Ducks in the early 1960s. His love for Oregon football and his strong character left a lasting impact on Justin. After Schwab’s passing in 2018, Justin expressed his desire to honor him by becoming a better teammate and person.
On his paternal side, Roger Herbert was a sprinter at Oregon State and later a high school biology teacher, influencing Justin’s interest in the subject. This familial connection to education and athletics shaped Herbert’s work ethic and academic pursuits during his time at Oregon.
Support from Family During the NFL Journey
Herbert’s family has always been his strongest supporters. When he was drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers, the COVID-19 pandemic meant the event was held virtually. His parents, Mark and Holly, took the opportunity to write him a heartfelt letter as part of the Chargers’ “Dear Rookies” series. They expressed their pride in his achievements and reminded him that they would always be there for him, a sentiment that underscores the strong family bond that has been crucial throughout his journey.
A Hometown Hero
Herbert’s journey from Eugene to the NFL is a testament to his determination and the unwavering support of his family. Despite the challenges he faced, including limited recruitment opportunities, he rose to prominence and is now recognized as one of the league’s top quarterbacks. As he embarks on this new chapter with the Chargers, Herbert carries with him the lessons learned from his family and the spirit of his hometown.
