The Los Angeles Chargers struck first in their Saturday road matchup against the New England Patriots, thanks to a sensational touchdown connection between quarterback Justin Herbert and rookie wide receiver Derius Davis. The 5-foot-8 speedster beat his defender on a crossing route and made a spectacular leaping grab in the end zone for a 23-yard score.
Davis, a fourth-round pick out of TCU, has been primarily utilized as a return specialist in his debut season. But the diminutive wideout is beginning to make his mark on offense as well. Just last week, he recorded his first NFL touchdown reception in a win over the Denver Broncos.
Herbert’s Deep Ball Prowess on Display
For Herbert, it was his seventh touchdown pass this season of 20 or more air yards, tying him for third-most in the league. The strong-armed QB has established himself as one of the game’s premier deep ball throwers.
“Any time you can hit on a big play like that to start the game, it gives the whole team a jolt of energy,” Herbert said. “Derius ran a great route and went up and got it. I’m really happy for him to make a play like that.”
Davis Becoming a Legitimate Weapon
Though undersized, Davis has elite quickness and leaping ability that help him play bigger than his measurables. He was one of the most electrifying return men in college football, tying the FBS record with nine total kick/punt return TDs. Now he’s translating those skills to offense.
- Expanding route tree: Davis is running a more diverse array of patterns
- Earning trust: Herbert is looking his way more often, especially in the red zone
- Big play ability: His speed turns short catches into long gains
If Davis continues to emerge as a reliable target, it will give the Chargers’ already potent passing game yet another dimension. His ability to take the top off a defense and make contested catches could be a real X-factor come playoff time.
Overcoming a Slow Start
The rookie’s immediate impact is especially impressive considering he barely saw the field on offense early in the year. Davis was inactive for the season opener and played just a handful of snaps in Weeks 2-4. But injuries to other receivers opened the door for more opportunities.
To his credit, Davis stayed ready despite the limited playing time and made the most of his chances when they arrived. His emergence is a testament to his preparation and mental toughness.
“I just tried to stay locked in and keep growing in practice,” Davis said. “I knew my opportunity would come at some point and I wanted to be ready to capitalize. It meant a lot to have Justin and the coaches put that trust in me.”
Making an Instant Impact
While still developing as a complete receiver, there’s no denying Davis’ ability to change a game in the blink of an eye. Whether it’s taking a short pass the distance or stretching the field vertically, he’s the kind of electric playmaker every team covets.
“Derius is just getting started,” Chargers head coach Brandon Staley said. “The more he’s out there, the more he’s going to pop and make big plays for us. He has all the tools. The future is very bright for him.”
Indeed, as a 22-year-old with game-breaking speed and the trust of a franchise quarterback, Derius Davis has positioned himself to be a dangerous weapon for the Chargers, both now and for years to come. Opposing defenses are officially on notice.
