NFL
Season Outlook:
The Chargers have posted 11 wins in each of the last two seasons and double-digit victories in three of the past four, but every run has ended the same way: a first-round playoff exit, most recently a 16-3 loss in New England. There's plenty of talent under Jim Harbaugh, including a highly skilled quarterback, but nothing to show for it. Los Angeles faces tough competition to win the AFC West, but the only thing that matters now is postseason success.
What's Changed:
It’s the third year for Harbaugh but the first for new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel. The former Dolphins head coach showed his ability to build potent attacks in Miami, and now he’ll have an opportunity to do that with Justin Herbert. The Chargers are counting on his scheme to finally unlock the seventh-year quarterback’s full arsenal. Added to the offense were linemen Cole Strange and Tyler Biadasz plus tight end David Njoku.
Bigger Role & Sophomore Breakout:
This might be the opportunity for Omarion Hampton to step into the lead back role. He totaled 545 rushing yards and four touchdowns in just nine games and could benefit from McDaniel’s system. While Njoku and fellow newcomer Charlie Kolar will get plenty of time at tight end, Oronde Gadsden II’s emergence in the second half of the season was noticeable. He gives Herbert a mismatch the offense has lacked at this position.
Key Question:
Was a broken offensive line really the problem? This will go unanswered, but it’s worth pondering if the 2025 Chargers were doomed from the beginning. Rashawn Slater’s left knee cost him the entire season and Joe Alt played six games before a high ankle injury. Slater is expected to be ready by Week 1 despite some concerns of late, while Alt appears to be a full go. Any amount of better health is reason for added optimism.
Prediction:
The Chargers go 12-5, win their first division title since 2009, and win the AFC title for the first time in over 30 seasons. It's quite a leap from late-season meltdowns and first-round exits, but Herbert gets the system he needs and fulfills the potential many have been saying is there. The skill position players will ultimately get Los Angeles to a Super Bowl on its home field, but the offensive line improves enough that it isn’t costing the Chargers in big spots.
X-Factor:
For two years, Los Angeles has had the quarterback and the defense. What it hasn't had is offensive coaching that maximizes Herbert's talent in big moments. If McDaniel delivers the explosive passing attack he built early in his head coaching tenure with Miami, the Chargers finally look like true Super Bowl contenders instead of a team that fades come January.
Final Scorecard:
- Offense: 9
- Defense: 7
- Coaching: 8
- X-Factor Upside: 9
- Schedule Strength: 7