The Chargers appear to be zeroing in on their next offensive coordinator - and it’s a name that’s been making waves in NFL circles for years. According to multiple reports, Los Angeles is expected to hire former Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel to lead their offense, pending any last-minute shifts in decision-making.
While no official deal has been signed, the signs are pointing toward McDaniel landing in L.A. barring a sudden change of heart. And make no mistake, this isn’t just another coordinator gig - it’s a chance to work with one of the league’s most talented young quarterbacks in Justin Herbert. That’s the kind of pairing that could reshape the AFC playoff picture if it clicks.
McDaniel, 42, has had a winding but impressive journey through the NFL coaching ranks. He broke into the league back in 2005 as a Broncos intern and spent the next decade-plus sharpening his offensive mind with stops in Houston, Washington, Cleveland, and Atlanta.
But it was his time in San Francisco that really put him on the map. As the 49ers’ run game coordinator from 2017 to 2020, McDaniel helped engineer one of the most dynamic ground attacks in football.
That success earned him a promotion to offensive coordinator in 2021, where his creative play design and motion-heavy schemes caught the attention of teams across the league.
The Dolphins came calling in 2022, handing McDaniel the reins as head coach. Over four seasons in Miami, he led the team to a 35-33 record and two playoff appearances. While his time with the Dolphins ended after the 2025 season, there’s little doubt about his offensive acumen - and that’s exactly what the Chargers are banking on.
McDaniel has been a hot name in this hiring cycle. Earlier in the day, he withdrew from the Browns’ head coaching search, pulling out ahead of a scheduled in-person interview.
He remains a candidate for the Ravens’ top job, and he’s also been linked to the Titans’ OC position under new head coach Robert Saleh. But sources indicate that the Chargers’ job is the one he wants - and it’s easy to see why.
With Herbert under center, the Chargers have the kind of quarterback that can bring McDaniel’s vision to life. Herbert’s arm talent, mobility, and ability to process quickly make him a perfect fit for a system built on timing, misdirection, and explosive play design. If this hire comes through, it could be the spark that reignites an offense that’s struggled to find consistency despite its talent.
The Chargers are clearly aiming to maximize Herbert’s prime, and bringing in a proven offensive mind like McDaniel is a bold step in that direction. Nothing’s official yet, but this pairing has the potential to be one of the most intriguing storylines of the offseason - and possibly one of the most impactful come fall.