Full Breakdown
Jim Harbaugh Confirms Justin Herbert’s OTAs Absence for Madison Beer Tour and Announces Return to Practice
5/28/2026, 1:33:24 PM
The OTAs Absence and Return
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert missed Phase 2 of the team’s offseason program to accompany his girlfriend, singer Madison Beer, on the European leg of her “Locket Tour.” The tour began in Krakow, Poland, on May 11 and concluded on May 31, with stops in Austria, Germany, the Netherlands, France, Spain, and a scheduled concert in Antwerp, Belgium. Herbert rejoined the Chargers on Wednesday, participating in 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 drills while offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel observed the session.
Background: Prior Attendance and Relationship Context
Herbert has historically attended every voluntary and non-voluntary offseason workout, a pattern highlighted by head coach Jim Harbaugh, who recalled the quarterback’s return from a hand fracture the previous season and his immediate participation in the following game. Herbert and Beer were first publicly linked in August 2023, appeared together at a Los Angeles Lakers game in March, and featured in Beer’s “lovergirl” music video earlier this month.
Data & Statistics
- Tour Details: European leg (May 11 – May 31); album “The Locket” released January 2024.
- Herbert’s 2023 Performance: 3,727 passing yards, 26 touchdowns; led the Chargers to a playoff berth, ending with a 16-3 loss to the New England Patriots in the wild-card round.
- Upcoming Schedule: Mandatory minicamp set for June 16-18; season opener versus the Arizona Cardinals at SoFi Stadium on September 13, 2024.
Official Statements & Team Response
Coach Harbaugh confirmed that Herbert requested permission to miss Phase 2 and expressed satisfaction with the decision, emphasizing the quarterback’s overall dedication. Harbaugh noted that Herbert’s consistent presence at workouts has been a hallmark of his professionalism. Offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel was present at practice, encouraging the unit with repeated calls of “Let’s go, 10!” as drills progressed. The coaching staff indicated that Herbert’s early return aligns with the team’s preparation timeline for the upcoming minicamp and regular season.
Criticism & Fan Backlash
Some Chargers supporters voiced criticism after Herbert’s absence from the OTAs, questioning the impact of personal commitments on team readiness. The backlash reflects heightened expectations for Herbert to lead the franchise beyond its recent playoff exit.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources agree on the reason for Herbert’s OTAs absence—supporting Madison Beer’s tour—and on his return date. No contradictory accounts were identified, though detailed information about the exact days missed within Phase 2 is not provided.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Do you need a ride to the airport?” — Jim Harbaugh, Chargers head coach
- “CHARGERS' JUSTIN HERBERT GUSHES OVER MADISON BEER IN HEARTFELT BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE: 'CHANGED MY LIFE FOREVER' "I was happy he went to support Madison on her music tour.” — Jim Harbaugh
- “He's somebody who's here all the time. There are times I've wanted to shoo him out of the building. He's at every voluntary and nonvoluntary workout. He's the same guy who broke his hand and was back the next day practicing, then stiff-arming guys in the game. So yeah, I was happy. Good balance.” — Jim Harbaugh
- “Same guy that broke his hand and he was here the next day practicing.” — Jim Harbaugh
- “Let's go, 10!” — Mike McDaniel, Chargers offensive coordinator
What’s Next for the Chargers
With Herbert back on the field, the Chargers will complete Phase 2 of OTAs, proceed to mandatory minicamp in mid-June, and finalize offensive schemes under McDaniel before opening the season against the Cardinals on September 13. The team’s focus remains on translating Herbert’s statistical production into postseason success.
