Adam Gase is back in the NFL, officially joining the Los Angeles Chargers as their passing game specialist. This marks Gase's return to the league after a hiatus since his stint as head coach of the New York Jets, which ended in 2020.
The Chargers have made a series of coaching additions, including former Dolphins offensive line coach Butch Barry and Max McCaffrey, brother of star running back Christian McCaffrey, as the running backs coach.
Gase, who briefly appeared at the Denver Broncos training camp in 2025, was praised by head coach Sean Payton as a "great resource." However, this role with the Chargers is his first official position since the Jets' 2020 season finale against the New England Patriots.
During his time with the Jets from 2019-2020, Gase compiled a 9-23 record. His tenure with the Miami Dolphins from 2016-2018 saw a slightly better run, finishing 23-25 with one playoff appearance. Unfortunately, his time in New York is often remembered for failing to develop quarterback Sam Darnold, who struggled under Gase's leadership.
Darnold's 2019 season was disrupted by an illness that sidelined him for three games, leaving the Jets with an 0-4 start. Despite a 7-5 finish that year, the 2020 season spiraled into a 2-14 disaster, leading to Gase's departure.
In Los Angeles, Gase will work alongside offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, who was hired by head coach Jim Harbaugh to replace Greg Roman. Interestingly, Roman recently interviewed for the Jets' offensive coordinator position, a role that eventually went to Frank Reich.
The Jets are set to face the Chargers in 2026, with long snapper Thomas Hennessy being the only remaining player on the Jets' roster from Gase's era. This matchup will surely add an intriguing subplot to the upcoming season.