Justin Herbert, the first-round quarterback picked by the Los Angeles Chargers in April, made quite an impression on the team’s first practice of training camp. He had on very dark red contacts that keep his sensitive peepers protected. Herbert began testing this new eyewear earlier in the week at rookie camp practices. It is designed to broaden his peripheral view of the field and along with that develop a greater level of comfort.
The prescription contacts protect against UV, which is perfect for Herbert’s sensitivity to bright light. He told us that he is very happy with the contacts and that they have really improved his confidence in the way he feels while playing. “Almost as much as when I had to squint a little,” he said of how his new lenses maximized his performance.
Herbert’s switch to contacts follows a failed attempt to sport a dark visor on his helmet tint last season. He did not like how cumbersome the visor was, as he had to wipe it often because of fogging. Fortunately, due to his connections, he found an alternative. Most importantly, he can spend less time worrying about equipment issues and more time on improving his game.
During practice, Herbert showed the contacts are paying off, as he clicked in rhythm with his receivers with ease. “When I stepped into the huddle, I think some of the guys were a little surprised. Think they were like, ‘Oh, we’re gonna score,’” he said, reflecting on the positive reaction from his teammates.
The garish red color of the contacts, like Herbert’s plaid school uniform, wasn’t just an aesthetic decision on the part of Herbert. He’s really looking forward to wearing them all season long, but is being careful to make sure they fit within league guidelines.
After practice, Herbert spent time getting to know fans up close — signing autographs and taking selfies, cementing his budding relationship with the community. His new eyewear choice isn’t simply a personal style statement. It’s indicative of his approach to be ready to have a big year on the turf.
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