Justin Herbert reacts to shocking news: ‘heartbroken’

The Los Angeles Chargers and star quarterback Justin Herbert are looking to finally defeat their playoff demons and make a deep run. A large part of the Chargers’ struggles has been due to not surrounding Herbert with the pieces he needs to be successful.

One steadfast target for Herbert has been Mike Williams, who was in the Chargers organization with the quarterback for Herbert’s first four seasons in the league. Williams spent 2024 with the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers, but returned to the Chargers in March.

Unfortunately, Williams has made the decision to retire, news of which broke on Thursday. Herbert then provided his reaction to the news.

“I want what’s best for Mike. He’s always been there for us, and we’re going to be there for him,” Herbert said in his Thursday press conference, via the Chargers’ official website. “It’s obviously a tough situation, and I’ve got so much respect for him as a teammate, as a friend, as a receiver, as a player, and the man that he is.

“We’re going to be there for him, however we can help. Football, at the end of the day, is a game and there’s more to life than just football. I’m just hoping for the best for him.”

Herbert noted that Williams could always be counted on to come through in the clutch.

“He’s going to make a play, and when everything mattered the most, he was going to show up. That’s what I’m going to remember the most about him, it was an honor to play alongside him, throw him the ball, and definitely heartbreaking, tough news to hear about. But we got his back no matter what.”

Herbert made sure to note that he believes the Chargers still have enough.

“Thankfully, we got a receiver room that continues to push each other, they compete, and they want to be the best,” Herbert said. “Thankfully, we got a lot of guys in that room that are going to make plays.

“We’ve seen it last year and the year before, it’s a veteran group, and I’m excited for the opportunity for these guys.”