New Chargers Arrival Already Set to Steal Veteran's Job

While various NFL teams are still deciding who'll be their No. 1 quarterback next season, that isn't the case for the Los Angeles Chargers. Justin Herbert has been the franchise's QB1 since he was drafted sixth overall by the Chargers in 2020 and the fanbase is thrilled to see what he can do with Jim Harbaugh as the head coach.

Having said that, Los Angeles' QB2 is still up in the air. Backup gunslingers Casey Bauman and Max Duggan were both cut by the Chargers in the last two weeks, leaving Easton Stick — last year's No. 2 arm — and Luis Perez to compete for the top spot behind Herbert.

Although Stick has more familiarity than Perez when it comes to the organization, it's looking like the latter is poised to steal his veteran counterpart's job.

Chargers Rumors: Will Luis Perez Steal QB2 Job From Easton Stick?

It's no secret that Perez has seen plenty of playing opportunities this preseason despite only being signed by the Chargers at the beginning of the month. The former Texas A&M-Commerce QB is attempting to make an NFL comeback after finishing the 2024 UFL campaign as the league's passing yards and touchdown leader.

Since joining the Chargers just over two weeks ago, Perez has already attempted more preseason passes (32) than Stick (26) while producing better results. Perez has completed 56.3% of his attempts thus far for 139 passing yards without a touchdown. On the flip side, Stick owns a 50.0% success rate along with 116 yards and a pair of interceptions.

While Pro Football Focus isn't painting either QB in a stellar light, Perez's 44.4 offense grade is noticeably better than Stick's putrid mark (27.8).

Stick has been with the Chargers since he was drafted 166th overall in 2019. While he didn't see much action early in his career, the ex-North Dakota State signal-caller was forced to start four games with Herbert on the sidelines last year.

Stick failed to lead Los Angeles to victory in those appearances, going 0-4 while completing 63.8% of his passes for 1,129 yards, three TDs, and one INT.

Nonetheless, Stick's poor preseason showcase has seen his grip on the QB2 job loosen. If his hold on the role was 100% secure, it's unlikely that Harbaugh would be planning to use him for the entirety of Saturday's preseason finale vs. the Dallas Cowboys. It could be that the Chargers are giving him one more chance to showcase his talents or they'll roll with Perez.

Even if Stick holds onto the QB2 job, all hope isn't gone for Perez. Having a reliable emergency quarterback is always important, especially given Herbert's recent injury history.

But whether Stick or Perez sees the majority of snaps on Saturday, it's clear that Los Angeles needs a full team effort.

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