Alec Elijah

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Alec Elijah is a daily contributor on 49ersRoundtable as well as other channels around the NFL. Outside of RTB, Alec covers College Football and is an NFL Draft Analyst for Pro Football Sports Network. Find him on all socials @CFBAlecElijah

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When Is It Time to Panic?

If the Chargers do not pick up a win or look competitive this Sunday against Buffalo, should the team be in panic mode?Sep 26, 2026

ChargersRoundtable

Gronk Calls the Chargers the NFL's Biggest Mess, and the Evidence Is Hard to Ignore

Sep 25, 2026

ChargersRoundtable

Chargers Lose David Njoku to Injured Reserve

Sep 24, 2026

ChargersRoundtable

Michael Irvin Goes After Justin Herbert and Makes It Personal

Sep 23, 2026

ChargersRoundtable

Chargers' 0-2 Start: 5 Biggest Problems Holding Los Angeles Back

Sep 22, 2026

ChargersRoundtable

Former Chargers Assistant Jeff Carpenter Heads to Rutgers

The Los Angeles Chargers are seeing another member of their coaching pipeline move on, as former quality control coach Jeff Carpenter has landed a new opportunity at Rutgers. Carpenter spent the last two seasons with the Chargers, contributing behind the scenes in multiple roles. In 2024, he worked closely with the wide receiver group as a quality control coach, helping with game preparation, film breakdown, and weekly planning. He then transitioned to working with the tight ends in 2025, showcasing his versatility and adaptability within the offensive structure. Now, he’ll take that experience to the college ranks, where he will reunite with Rutgers offensive coordinator Kirk Ciarrocca. The two previously worked together at Penn State in 2020, when Carpenter served as a graduate assistant. At Rutgers, Carpenter is expected to work closely with the offense, particularly with the quarterback room.Mar 21, 2026

ChargersRoundtable

Chargers Add Veteran DT with Dalvin Tomlinson Signing

The Los Angeles Chargers have bolstered the interior of their defensive line, agreeing to terms with veteran defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson. Tomlinson’s agents confirmed the deal shortly after the experienced lineman was released earlier this week by the Arizona Cardinals. Tomlinson spent the 2025 season in Arizona after joining the Cardinals following his departure from the Cleveland Browns. Despite being on the roster for just one season, he remained a steady presence on the defensive front, starting all 17 games. During that stretch, Tomlinson recorded 26 tackles and one sack while playing a key role in anchoring the run defense. The 31-year-old brings a wealth of experience to Los Angeles. Before his time in Cleveland, Tomlinson spent two seasons with the Minnesota Vikings and began his NFL career with the New York Giants, where he played his first four seasons and established himself as a reliable interior defender. With Tomlinson’s experience and physical presence in the trenches, the Chargers add another dependable option up front as they continue shaping their defensive rotation heading into the upcoming season.Mar 13, 2026

ChargersRoundtable

Chargers Bolster Offensive Line With Signing of Tyler Biadasz

The Los Angeles Chargers have addressed a key need on their offensive line, agreeing to terms with veteran center Tyler Biadasz on a three-year, $30 million deal. The move comes shortly after longtime center Bradley Bozeman announced his retirement, leaving a major vacancy in the middle of the line. Over the past two seasons in Washington, Biadasz started all 31 games he appeared in and proved to be a reliable presence in the trenches. His durability and consistency made him an attractive target for a Chargers offense that is expected to undergo several changes up front this offseason.Mar 6, 2026

ChargersRoundtable

Chargers Rank in Middle of the Pack on NFLPA Survey

Multiple Los Angeles Chargers players voiced mixed feelings about head coach Jim Harbaugh in the latest NFL Players Association survey, shedding light on the organization’s internal climate following the 2025 season. The NFLPA gathered responses from 1,759 players leaguewide between Nov. 2 and Dec. 11, evaluating satisfaction across several categories, including coaching, facilities, ownership, and overall workplace culture.  The Chargers placed squarely in the middle at No. 15, a result that reflects a divided locker room when it comes to Harbaugh’s leadership style. Some players reportedly appreciated his structure and intensity, hallmarks of his coaching approach throughout his career. Others, however, were less enthusiastic, suggesting there is room for improvement in communication and day-to-day operations. Harbaugh, who was brought in to reestablish a winning identity, helped guide the team through a competitive 2025 campaign, but the survey results indicate that on-field performance doesn’t automatically translate into universal approval inside the building. As the Chargers look ahead to 2026, organizational alignment, from the front office to the locker room, could be just as important as roster upgrades.Feb 28, 2026

ChargersRoundtable

Chargers Continue Coaching Overhaul With Sean Spence Addition

The Los Angeles Chargers are continuing to reshape their defensive coaching staff, bringing in Sean Spence. Spence is expected to work primarily with the inside linebackers, though the team has not formally announced his final title. Spence, who played linebacker in the NFL from 2012 through 2017, has moved quickly into coaching since retiring. He launched his coaching career as a special teams analyst at Western Michigan University in 2023, then shifted to linebackers coach in 2024 before focusing on edge defenders and pass-rush development last season.Feb 14, 2026

ChargersRoundtable

Chargers Lose Passing Game Coordinator Marcus Brady to Ravens Staff

The Los Angeles Chargers are facing another coaching change in the offseason, as passing game coordinator Marcus Brady is reportedly leaving to join the Baltimore Ravens. According to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz, Brady will reunite with Jesse Minter in Baltimore, giving the Ravens an experienced offensive voice as they continue reshaping their coaching staff. Brady spent the last two seasons with the Chargers, where he played a key role in designing the passing attack and working closely with quarterback Justin Herbert.  In Baltimore, Brady will collaborate with new offensive coordinator Declan Doyle, aiming to help maximize Lamar Jackson’s dynamic skill set as the Ravens look to keep their offense among the NFL’s most dangerous units.Feb 7, 2026

ChargersRoundtable

Chargers QB Coach to Interview for Giants Vacant OC Spot

Los Angeles Chargers quarterbacks coach Shane Day is scheduled to interview for the Giants’ vacant OC position on Saturday, becoming the third candidate formally added to head coach John Harbaugh’s growing list this week. Day has built a league-wide reputation as one of the NFL’s top quarterback developers, most notably for his role in Justin Herbert's continued growth as a Chargers star. Since joining the staff in Los Angeles, Day has been credited with helping Herbert refine his mechanics, improve his command at the line of scrimmage, and take meaningful steps as a pocket passer without sacrificing his aggressiveness. His work has not gone unnoticed. Earlier this month, Day was a serious contender for the Chargers’ offensive coordinator opening before the job ultimately went to Mike McDaniel, further cementing Day’s standing as a rising offensive mind. Now, the Giants are taking a close look at options to reshape an offense that has lacked consistency in recent seasons.Jan 31, 2026

ChargersRoundtable

Former Chargers QB Now Interviews for Bills Coaching Vacancy

Philip Rivers is stepping into the coaching conversation, interviewing for the Buffalo Bills’ head coaching vacancy, the team announced Friday. Fresh from a brief return to the NFL, Rivers is exploring a transition from quarterback to leader from the sidelines. The 44-year-old veteran came out of retirement last December when the Indianapolis Colts needed an experienced signal-caller after Daniel Jones suffered an Achilles injury. Rivers started three games, all losses, as the Colts fell short of the playoffs despite a promising 7-1 start to the season. Rivers’ NFL journey spans 17 seasons, with the first 16 in Los Angeles, where he became one of the league’s most durable and consistent quarterbacks. His career included multiple playoff appearances and a memorable showdown against Josh Allen and the Bills in 2020, his final postseason game, which ended in a tight 27-24 defeat.Jan 24, 2026

ChargersRoundtable

Harbaugh Embraces Reset as Chargers Move On From Greg Roman

Jim Harbaugh is no stranger to loyalty, which is why the Los Angeles Chargers’ decision to part ways with offensive coordinator Greg Roman marks a significant turning point for the franchise. For the first time across Harbaugh’s six seasons as an NFL head coach in San Francisco and Los Angeles, he will enter a year without Roman calling his offense. Calling the move “a fresh start, a new direction,” Harbaugh acknowledged Roman’s football acumen and past success while emphasizing the need for change. With Roman gone and defensive coordinator Jesse Minter drawing head-coaching interest, the Chargers face an offseason of major decisions. For Harbaugh, it’s a necessary evolution aimed at finally pushing the organization to the next level.Jan 17, 2026

ChargersRoundtable

Can the Chargers Secondary Slow Drake Maye Down This Sunday?

The Los Angeles Chargers will lean on their defense Sunday as they prepare to face a New England offense that has quietly become one of the league’s most difficult units to slow down.  In the secondary, Derwin James remains the Chargers’ defensive X-factor. His versatility will be crucial against a Patriots offense that leans heavily on tight ends Hunter Henry and Austin Hooper, especially with Mack Hollins sidelined. James’s ability to rotate post-snap, blitz, or drop into coverage fits perfectly within Jesse Minter’s zone-heavy scheme designed to confuse quarterbacks. Linebackers will also be under the microscope. Limiting yards after the catch and preventing easy outlets will be essential in keeping Maye from sustaining long drives. The Chargers’ defense has been outstanding in 2025, allowing fewer passing touchdowns than interceptions. If their key defenders can generate pressure, disguise coverages, and tighten up against tight ends, Los Angeles will give itself a strong chance to slow a red-hot New England attack.Jan 10, 2026

ChargersRoundtable

Former Chargers QB Drew Brees Earns Hall of Fame Finalist Nod

Drew Brees’ journey to football immortality took another significant step this week. The former Chargers quarterback is now a finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame, advancing as one of 15 modern-era nominees for the Class of 2026, which was announced Tuesday. While Brees is most widely associated with his legendary run in New Orleans, his NFL story began in San Diego. The Chargers selected the former Purdue standout in the second round of the 2001 NFL Draft with the No. 32 overall pick, pairing him with LaDainian Tomlinson in a draft class that would help reshape the franchise. Over five seasons with the Chargers, Brees appeared in 59 regular-season games and started 58 of them, throwing for 12,348 yards and 80 touchdowns while completing more than 62 percent of his passes. Brees also showed versatility, contributing as a runner and even catching a touchdown pass during his time with the Bolts. His lone playoff appearance with the Chargers came in the 2004 postseason, when he threw for 319 yards and two touchdowns in a narrow overtime loss to the Jets. Following the 2005 season, San Diego moved on after Brees suffered a torn labrum and the team had drafted Philip Rivers. That decision led Brees to New Orleans, where he built a Hall of Fame résumé. Today, he ranks second all-time in NFL history with 80,358 passing yards and 571 touchdown passes, numbers that underscore his lasting impact on the game.Jan 2, 2026

ChargersRoundtable

Gruden Makes the Case Why Justin Herbert Belongs in the MVP Spotlight

Despite playing through a painful hand injury and navigating constant changes along the offensive line, Herbert has the Chargers firmly in the playoff picture and squarely in the AFC West race. Former NFL head coach Jon Gruden recently added his voice to the growing MVP conversation surrounding Herbert, praising the quarterback’s ability to thrive under chaotic circumstances. Gruden pointed out that Herbert has dealt with extreme instability up front, including a revolving door at both tackle positions and nearly 30 different offensive line combinations. Add in injuries to running backs and receivers, and the challenge becomes even clearer. What separates Herbert, in Gruden’s eyes, is how he responds when the stakes are highest. Time and again, the Chargers’ signal-caller has delivered clutch throws and game-changing plays that few quarterbacks can make. Entering the final two weeks of the regular season at 11–4, the Chargers have already secured a playoff berth. While winning the AFC West will require help and two more victories, Herbert has positioned his team to compete for more than just a postseason appearance.Dec 26, 2025

ChargersRoundtable

Chargers Closing In on January Football

It hasn’t happened in a while, but the Chargers are on the verge of making playoff appearances in consecutive seasons. Jim Harbaugh’s first year at the helm has Los Angeles trending in the right direction, and Sunday’s 16-13 win over the Chiefs pushed the Bolts to 10-4 while officially knocking their longtime rival out of postseason contention for the first time since 2014. With three games left on the schedule, the Chargers sit comfortably in the AFC Wild Card picture. A run at the division title still exists in theory, with a Week 18 showdown against Denver looming, but the Broncos’ 11-game winning streak makes that a long-term discussion. The more immediate opportunity arrives this weekend. Los Angeles heads to Dallas in Week 16 to face a Cowboys team that has found new life after its bye week, stringing together three straight wins. A Chargers victory at AT&T Stadium would put them in position to clinch a playoff spot before the holiday.Dec 19, 2025

ChargersRoundtable

Chargers' Jim Harbaugh Keeps it Brief When Asked About Sherrone Moore's Firing

Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh offered only the briefest acknowledgement when asked about the sudden firing and arrest of former Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore, making clear he was not ready to process the unfolding situation publicly. “I’m still processing that,” Harbaugh said. “Still processing that like a lot of people, I’m sure.” He declined to elaborate further, leaving others to speculate on his thoughts about the stunning developments at his former program. Harbaugh coached Moore for years on the Michigan staff, and Moore succeeded him as head coach following Harbaugh’s departure for the Chargers. Michigan announced on December 10 that Moore had been fired “for cause,” citing credible evidence that he engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. Within hours of his dismissal, Moore was arrested and booked into the Washtenaw County Jail as part of what police described as an assault investigation.Dec 12, 2025

ChargersRoundtable

Justin Herbert Expected to Play Monday

Justin Herbert expects to suit up for the Los Angeles Chargers in Monday’s matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, despite a recent hand injury that briefly clouded his status. Herbert has been healthy all year, but he suffered a fractured left hand during the Chargers' Week 13 win over the Las Vegas Raiders. He underwent successful surgery to repair the injury and has been considered day-to-day as the team approaches a crucial late-season stretch. With the franchise still seeking its first postseason win since 2018, Herbert’s health is essential to any potential playoff run. “The plan is to prepare as if I’m going to play and see how the next couple of days goes,” Herbert said. “Do everything I can to be out there for the team and the guys out there.”Dec 5, 2025

ChargersRoundtable