Full Breakdown
Herbert Brothers Reunite on Chargers Practice Squad
9/1/2026, 11:56:52 PM
Core Event: Patrick Herbert Joins Los Angeles’ Practice Squad
Tight end Patrick Herbert signed with the Los Angeles Chargers’ practice squad, reuniting him with his older brother, quarterback Justin Herbert, for the first time since they were teammates at the University of Oregon in 2019. The move was announced in the weeks leading up to the 2026 NFL season and adds Patrick to a squad that can hold up to 16 players, with a possible 17th international slot.
Background & Context
Both brothers played at Oregon, but their roles differed dramatically. Justin entered his senior year as the Ducks’ starting quarterback, throwing for 3,471 yards, 32 touchdowns and five interceptions, and was selected sixth overall in the 2020 NFL Draft. Patrick, three years younger, was a freshman in 2019, appeared in only two games, and spent the remainder of his college career primarily as a blocking tight end. After going undrafted in 2025, Patrick signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars as a free agent, spent the 2025 season on their practice squad, signed a reserve-future contract in early 2026, and was waived during final cuts before joining the Chargers.
Data & Statistics
- College production: Patrick recorded 31 receptions for 388 yards and four touchdowns over his Oregon career. Sources differ on the total games played: Field Level Media lists 43 games, while ESPN notes 41 games.
- Current depth chart: The Chargers’ active roster lists tight ends David Njoku, Charlie Kolar, Oronde Gadsden and Scott Matlock. Patrick will provide additional blocking depth behind this group.
- Justin’s college senior-year output: 3,471 passing yards, 32 touchdowns, five interceptions.
Official Statements & Responses
NFL insider Mike Garafolo reported that Patrick cleared waivers and fielded offers from several teams before choosing the Chargers, citing the opportunity to be near his brother as a key factor. The Chargers organization confirmed the addition to the practice squad but offered no further comment.
Why It Matters / Impact
Sibling reunions on the same NFL roster are rare, creating a notable family storyline for fans and media. While Patrick is unlikely to see immediate game action, his presence adds a familiar blocker who can step in if injuries affect the Chargers’ tight-end rotation. The move also gives Patrick continued exposure to the Chargers’ offensive system, potentially improving his chances of elevation to the active roster during the season.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Games played at Oregon: Field Level Media reports 43 appearances; ESPN reports 41. Both agree on the same reception, yardage and touchdown totals.
- Future role: No official projection has been provided regarding whether Patrick might be promoted to the 53-man roster, leaving his season outlook uncertain.
What’s Next
Patrick will train with the Chargers throughout the 2026 preseason and remain on the practice squad unless the team elevates him to address injuries or performance needs at tight end. Should he be activated, the Herbert brothers could share a sideline for the first time at the professional level, a scenario that both players have expressed enthusiasm about in past interviews.
