Chargers Making Changes for 2026 Season
The Los Angeles Chargers have certainly made strides under coach Jim Harbaugh in the last couple of years, but it’s hard to ignore how both seasons ended with a touch of frustration.
Despite the playoff exits against the Texans and the Patriots, which were disappointing, the Chargers have shown progress. Those first-round losses did highlight some necessary tweaks if they aim for greater success in 2026.
Some issues have already begun to be addressed. Following the Wild Card playoff loss to the Patriots, offensive coordinator Greg Roman and offensive line coach Mike Devlin both stepped down.
Stepping in as the new offensive coordinator is former Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel, who is expected to infuse some much-needed creativity into an offense that has stalled. Devlin’s role has been filled by Butch Barry, who previously worked with McDaniel in Miami.
These adjustments mark just the start of an offseason rework geared toward building a stronger support system for quarterback Justin Herbert.
Next on the agenda is upgrading personnel, particularly focusing on the offensive line and the wide receiver positions.
Offensive Line
It’s tough to discuss the Chargers’ offensive challenges last year without mentioning the absence of two key offensive tackles: Rashawn Slater and Joe Alto. Slater was sidelined the entire season due to a knee injury, while Alto played only six games because of an ankle issue.
Few teams can afford to lose two Pro Bowl-caliber tackles. The Chargers still managed to secure 11 wins and make the playoffs, but Slater’s and Alto’s injuries were significant obstacles. As a result, Herbert found himself sacked 54 times and pressured a staggering 268 times.
But it wasn’t solely their absence that impacted the offense. Bringing them back would be a huge boost, but the Chargers also need improvements at the interior positions. Free agent Mekhi Becton struggled at right guard while Bradley Bozeman has been labeled one of the NFL’s lesser pass blockers and just average in run blocking at center—definitely areas they need to improve.
Additionally, left guard Zion Johnson is a free agent after a season that had mixed results. He was solid as a pass blocker but not very effective in run protection.
A coaching change alone can’t resolve the internal problems. So, expect the Chargers to actively pursue upgrades both in free agency and the draft.
They’ll be scouting prospects like Vega Ioane from Penn State, likely in contention for their first-round pick at the 22nd spot. Other interior lineman worth keeping an eye on include Connor Lue from Auburn, Chase Vizontis from Texas A&M, Jake Slaughter from Florida State, Sam Hecht from Kansas State, Keelan Rutledge from Georgia Tech, and Almaji Reed-Adams from Texas A&M.
If they hit free agency, options like Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum, Bills guard David Edwards, and center Connor McGovern could make sense for the Chargers.
Wide Receiver
The Chargers had high hopes for Ladd McConkie, who seemed pleased with Quentin Johnston’s progress. However, with second-round pick Tre Harris and fifth-round pick Keandre Lambert-Smith looking unlikely to return, the focus may shift to veteran Keenan Allen.
Even if they maintain last year’s performance level, acquiring standout weapons is necessary to bolster what they already have.
The scouting combine, of course, is mainly about evaluating draft prospects, but it’s also where deals for free agency and trades often begin to take shape.
Depending on how their health holds up, certain veterans could greatly benefit the Chargers.
Notably, 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who might be playing his last game with San Francisco, along with former Dolphins and Chiefs star Tyreek Hill, could both fill important roles. Both receivers fit well into McDaniel’s offensive scheme, and since he has previous success with Hill in Miami, it wouldn’t be surprising to see discussions happening next week.
Edge Rusher
The Chargers find themselves facing uncertainty at this position, particularly with Khalil Mack and Odafe Oweh becoming free agents. Mack is a priority for re-signing as he approaches 35, but the team may also need to plan for a future without him. Finding a defensive partner for Tuli Tuipulotu is essential, whether it be this season or in the near future.
There are options available in free agency, like former Dolphins pass rusher Bradley Chubb, who has ties to McDaniel and could provide some necessary support.
Still, this is a position that needs addressing in the draft as well. Potential first-round choices like Cassius Howell from Texas A&M, TJ Parker from Clemson, and Akheem Mesidor from Miami could be on their radar as they head to Indianapolis. Various other prospects like Zion Young from Missouri, Mason Thomas from Oklahoma, Gabe Jacus from Illinois, Joshua Josephs from Tennessee, and Romello Hite from Texas Tech are also expected to showcase their skills at the combine.
