Shannon Sharpe Criticized Justin Herbert After Chargers Loss

The Hall of Fame tight end questioned Herbert's engagement during a winless start to the 2026 NFL season.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Football

Shannon Sharpe Criticized Justin Herbert After Chargers Loss

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Shannon Sharpe has publicly criticized Justin Herbert following the LA Chargers' fifth consecutive loss of the 2026 NFL season. The critique occurred after the Chargers fell to the Buffalo Bills 37-34 in an overtime contest.

Why it matters

Sharpe attributed the team's struggling start to Herbert's level of engagement, placing significant scrutiny on the quarterback as the season progresses. The comments highlight the mounting pressure surrounding the franchise as they search for their first victory.

Justin Herbert has recorded five touchdowns and seven interceptions through the first five games of the 2026 season. The team most recently suffered a 37-34 overtime loss to the Buffalo Bills, a game in which Herbert recorded 121 passing yards.

The players

Shannon Sharpe

He is a former NFL tight end and current media personality known for his commentary on the Nightcap podcast.

Justin Herbert

He is the starting quarterback for the Los Angeles Chargers who was selected in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft.

Chad Johnson

He is a former NFL wide receiver who co-hosts the Nightcap podcast with Shannon Sharpe.

The details

Sharpe shared his assessment of the team's performance during an episode of the Nightcap podcast. The scrutiny comes as the Chargers prepare for a challenging matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs.

The LA Chargers have started their 2026 season with five losses.
The Chargers are scheduled to play the Kansas City Chiefs this Sunday.
The team has a designated bye week during Week 7 of the season.

Football
Oct. 12
Chargers Lost to Broncos, Fell to 0-5
Football
Sept. 30
Chargers Have Started 2026 Season 0-3
Football
Sept. 23
Chargers Have Returned to Practice After 0-2 Start

Season Trajectory

This winless start severely hampers the Chargers' playoff positioning and creates an immediate need for a turnaround during the upcoming games. With the Los Angeles Rams currently holding a 2-3 record, the Chargers face increased pressure to regain ground within their division.

The team must secure a win against the Kansas City Chiefs this Sunday to avoid an 0-6 start before their Week 7 bye. Fantasy managers should monitor Herbert's production closely, as his seven interceptions through five games have significantly impacted his value.

The takeaway

The Chargers face a critical turning point as they attempt to reconcile their early-season struggles with their high expectations. Readers should watch the upcoming game against Kansas City to see if the team can stabilize its performance before the bye week.