Full Breakdown
Justin Herbert's Offseason Transition to Mike McDaniel's New-Chargers Offense
6/18/2026, 8:59:28 AM
Offseason Transition to McDaniel's Scheme
The Los Angeles Chargers have begun a staged offseason program to integrate quarterback Justin Herbert into offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel’s timing-based system. After missing OTAs, Herbert spent two workouts on footwork and timing, including a left-foot-forward shotgun stance, a departure from traditional NFL form, then began daily throws at mandatory minicamp, marking a step toward full-speed practice.
Background & Context
Greg Roman’s offense required Herbert to make deep throws and extensions, a plan hampered by a porous line that limited the Chargers to 21.6 points per game in 2025. McDaniel’s West Coast-style system stresses quick releases, zone-blocking and short-to-intermediate routes that create YAC. The team added interior linemen Tyler Biadasz, Cole Strange, Charlie Kolar, Keaton Mitchell, Alec Ingold and David Njoku to support the new scheme.
Official Statements & Responses
Kris Rhim called the plan a “nice progression” moving Herbert toward training camp. McDaniel said the footwork focus lets Herbert operate without overthinking; Harbaugh praised his diligent work on the new patternization. Herbert noted that limiting throws in May-June is intentional to prioritize footwork and timing. The staff stressed patience, describing the offseason as calculated and deliberate.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If guys train it so that they don’t have to think about it and they can be comfortable, you can do a couple things that put the defense in a bind with how you do your footwork,” — Mike McDaniel, Offensive Coordinator
- “[Herbert’s] been working very hard, very hard at those. And as you would expect, Justin has picked it up.” — Jim Harbaugh, Head Coach
- “and talking about how we can get the ball to the receivers in a position where they can run with it and allow them to do the things that they’re so good at: making plays.” — Justin Herbert, Quarterback
Outlook
The Chargers aim to increase scoring significantly beyond the 21.6 points per game posted in 2025 by leveraging Herbert’s quicker release and the receivers’ YAC potential. Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston and Tre’ Harris are expected to thrive in the timing-driven system. Mandatory minicamp will continue daily throws this week, followed by a full training camp strategically in late July, with the playbook slated for completion before the early-September home opener.
