MidValleySports.Com

By Tim Peterson

The Chargers are hoping that the hiring of offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel will propel them to the next level. Two straight first-round playoff losses isn’t what the Chargers had in mind with the hiring of head coach Jim Harbaugh two years ago.

Harbaugh has gotten them into the playoffs but they need something more to get them to that next level. The hiring of McDaniel could be that necessary step.

The Chargers have the pieces in place with one of the top quarterbacks in the league in Justin Herbert and a solid running back in Omarion Hampton. McDaniel typically makes good use of the play action pass and the run game.

General Manager Joe Hortiz said one of the key changes with McDaniel is in the blocking schemes. McDaniel likes to go with a “wide-zone” blocking concepts which prioritizes athleticism in the offensive linemen.

Bradley Bozeman, who recently announced his retirement, did not possess the required athletic traits needed in McDaniel’s system. Neither did Mekhi Becton, who was released after just one season in a move that will also clear more cap space. The Chargers have addressed the offensive line in free agency this off season by signing center Tyler Biadasz, guard Cole Strange and retaining Trey Pipkins and Trevor Penning. But Hortiz also wants to bolster the offensive line through the draft.

Strange is presumed to be the starter at left guard but the Chargers still need to starter at left guard following Zion Johnson’s departure to Cleveland.

The Chargers are projected to draft Penn State guard Olaivavega Ioane with the number 22 overall pick. Ioane is considered to be the best guard in college football.

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The Chargers have re-signed safety Tony Jefferson to a one-year, $2 million deal. Jefferson is coming off of a season in which he had four interceptions and seven passes defensed in in 13 games. He is expected to provide depth behind starters Derwin James Jr. and Elijah Molden under first-year NFL defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary.

Other needs for the Chargers for the 2026 season include edge rusher. Khalil Mack is returning on a one-year deal but Odafe Oweh signed with Washington. LA needs to find a quality young edge rusher to play opposite Tuli Tuipulotu which would provide long term stability.

Jefferson provides some depth at safety as the Chargers return James and Molden. Also R.J. Mickens flashed in his rookie season. But with James continuing to play nickel/slot, they need a safety who can cover the deep parts of the field. They could search for one in the draft or via a trade.

The Chargers may be looking to add another receiver. They currently have a good core group of young wideouts with Ladd McConkey, Tre Harris, and Quentin Johnston (if he’s not traded). But the Chargers could use more speed in McDaniel’s system, and especially a player that could play on special teams as well.