Chargers Poised for Big 2026 Season After Key Offseason Hire

New offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel expected to unlock Justin Herbert's potential.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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The Los Angeles Chargers are facing high expectations in 2026 after making a key offseason move to hire former Miami Dolphins offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel. With star quarterback Justin Herbert looking to take the next step, McDaniel's innovative offensive approach is seen as the key to unlocking Herbert's full potential and helping the Chargers overcome a tough AFC West division.

Why it matters

The Chargers have made the playoffs in the last two seasons, but have struggled to win in the postseason with Herbert at quarterback. McDaniel's arrival is viewed as a potential game-changer that could elevate the Chargers' offense and help them compete with the emerging Denver Broncos and perennial contender Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC West.

The details

McDaniel, who previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Miami Dolphins, is known for his creative and diverse offensive schemes. His work with Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has many believing he can have a similar impact on Herbert's development and help the Chargers field a more dynamic and unpredictable offense in 2026.

  • The Chargers hired Mike McDaniel as their new offensive coordinator in January 2026.

The players

Justin Herbert

The Chargers' star quarterback who is looking to take the next step in his career and lead the team to playoff success.

Mike McDaniel

The Chargers' new offensive coordinator, known for his innovative offensive schemes and ability to get the most out of his quarterbacks.

Tua Tagovailoa

The Dolphins' quarterback who thrived under McDaniel's offensive leadership in Miami.

Denver Broncos

An emerging contender in the AFC West division that the Chargers will have to compete with.

Kansas City Chiefs

The perennial contenders in the AFC West that the Chargers will have to overcome to reach the playoffs.

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What they’re saying

“The addition of coordinator Mike McDaniel should open up the passing game while creating a more diverse run game, as we saw for years in Miami, helping Justin Herbert get over his playoff hump.”

— Matt Verderame, Sports Illustrated Writer (Sports Illustrated)

What’s next

The Chargers' success in 2026 will largely depend on how quickly Justin Herbert and the offense can adapt to Mike McDaniel's system. All eyes will be on the team's performance in the preseason and early regular season games to see if the new coordinator can unlock Herbert's full potential.

The takeaway

The Chargers' offseason move to hire Mike McDaniel as their new offensive coordinator is a high-risk, high-reward proposition. If McDaniel can work his magic and elevate Justin Herbert's game, the Chargers could emerge as a true Super Bowl contender in the AFC. However, if the transition doesn't go smoothly, the Chargers could struggle to keep pace in the tough AFC West division.