Mike McDaniel is heading to Los Angeles, and it’s not as a head coach - at least not yet.
The Chargers have officially named McDaniel their new offensive coordinator, a move that adds serious firepower to Jim Harbaugh’s revamped coaching staff. McDaniel had been linked to the Buffalo Bills' head coaching vacancy after the team made a stunning decision to part ways with Sean McDermott following their playoff loss to Denver. But before any formal interview could take place, McDaniel pulled his name from consideration.
According to reports, McDaniel may have felt uneasy about pursuing a head coaching opportunity so soon after agreeing to join the Chargers. It’s a telling move - one that suggests he’s not just chasing titles, but looking for the right fit to build something sustainable. And in Los Angeles, he’s stepping into a situation tailor-made for a coach with his offensive pedigree.
Let’s talk about what McDaniel is inheriting. First and foremost: Justin Herbert.
The Chargers’ franchise quarterback is a dream for any offensive coordinator - big arm, sharp mind, and the kind of pocket presence that gives a play-caller room to get creative. Pair that with a retooled offensive line that includes Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt, both expected to be healthy and anchoring the edges in 2026, and you’ve got the foundation for a dynamic attack.
Then there’s the skill position talent. Omarion Hampton brings power and burst out of the backfield, while Ladd McConkey and Quentin Johnston give Herbert a pair of versatile, explosive weapons on the outside.
McDaniel’s system - known for motion, misdirection, and maximizing space - could unlock the full potential of this group. If things click, this offense has the pieces to be among the league’s most dangerous.
McDaniel replaces Greg Roman, who was let go after the Chargers’ early playoff exit at the hands of New England. Roman’s run-heavy approach never quite meshed with Herbert’s strengths, and the offense often looked disjointed. With McDaniel calling plays, expect a shift toward tempo, spacing, and rhythm - all things that suit Herbert’s game and this roster’s makeup.
It’s worth noting that McDaniel’s run in Miami wasn’t without its challenges. He did lead the Dolphins to multiple playoff appearances - something the franchise hadn’t done in over 20 years - but injuries to Tua Tagovailoa and inconsistent offensive execution limited how far they could go. Still, McDaniel showed he could scheme with the best of them, and his ability to adapt and evolve will be put to the test in LA.
This move also positions McDaniel well for the future. If he can elevate the Chargers’ offense and help Herbert take another leap, it’s only a matter of time before his name is back in the head coaching conversation. The 2027 cycle could be calling, and this time, he might be ready to answer.
For now, though, McDaniel’s focus is on turning the Chargers’ offense into a juggernaut. And with the talent on hand, he’s got everything he needs to make that happen.