If the Chargers are serious about getting the most out of Justin Herbert and finally breaking through the glass ceiling that’s hovered over the franchise for years, there’s one move that could change everything: bringing in Mike McDaniel as offensive coordinator.
Yes, McDaniel’s run as head coach in Miami didn’t end the way some might’ve hoped. But let’s not lose sight of what he does best - designing and calling plays that light up scoreboards and stress defenses from every angle.
As an offensive mind, McDaniel has consistently been one of the most innovative figures in the NFL. Put that kind of creativity behind a quarterback like Herbert, and suddenly you’re not just talking about improvement - you’re talking about unlocking a whole new level.
Let’s start with what makes McDaniel so intriguing: his ability to tailor an offense around a quarterback’s strengths. In Miami, he took Tua Tagovailoa - a solid but limited passer - and built one of the league’s most efficient passing attacks.
It wasn’t about overwhelming arm talent; it was about timing, spacing, motion, and making the game easier for the quarterback. Now imagine that same system, but with Herbert’s rocket arm and ability to make every throw on the field.
That’s a scary thought for opposing defenses.
For years, the Chargers have leaned heavily on Herbert’s raw ability. He’s been asked to do too much, too often, without the kind of structure that helps great quarterbacks thrive.
McDaniel brings that structure. His offense would give Herbert rhythm, pre-snap clarity, and more favorable looks - all while keeping defenses guessing.
And that’s where McDaniel’s creativity really shines. One of the biggest knocks on the Chargers’ offense in recent seasons has been its predictability, especially in high-leverage moments.
Too many static formations. Too many basic route combinations.
Not enough motion or misdirection to keep defenses honest. That’s not McDaniel’s style.
His offenses are built to confuse and stress defenses - constant motion, layered route concepts, and deceptive run looks that force defenders to hesitate. Even when the Dolphins stumbled late in seasons, McDaniel’s scheme still gave defenses fits.
There’s also a natural synergy here with Jim Harbaugh. Harbaugh’s vision is clear: physical football, discipline, and a strong run game foundation.
McDaniel’s offense fits that mold. His run game is rooted in wide-zone concepts, misdirection, and creative blocking angles - all designed to open up explosive plays while staying true to a physical identity.
Harbaugh can set the tone and culture; McDaniel can focus on weekly game plans and dialing up plays that put points on the board. It’s a pairing that makes a lot of football sense.
And let’s be clear - McDaniel’s issues in Miami weren’t about offensive production. They were about the broader responsibilities of being a head coach: managing the clock, overseeing the defense, handling the locker room.
That’s not what the Chargers would be asking of him. In L.A., his job would be simple: build an elite offense and help Herbert reach his full potential.
This isn’t the time for a safe hire. The Chargers have been stuck in neutral for too long.
They have a franchise quarterback in his prime, a new head coach with a clear vision, and a fan base hungry for more than just playoff appearances. Hiring Mike McDaniel as offensive coordinator wouldn’t just be bold - it could be the move that finally shifts the trajectory of the entire franchise.