Injuries to key contributors especially on the offensive line are why the Chargers are going home early
The story of the Chargers' offense in 2025 is one of "what ifs." Star and newly re-signed offensive tackle Rashawn Slater was lost to injury for the whole year. The 6’4, 315 pounder ruptured his patella tendon. Free agent running back Najee Harris was similarly KO'd for the year. With a torn Achilles at age 27 now, we'll have to see how much of his athleticism he'll retain. There was a lot of optimism around his signing as the team hoped he could pick up where J.K. Dobbins left off.
His backup Omarion Hampton also missed time. The combination of three injured linemen and a pair of injured backs had Justin Herbert on the run all year. He totaled 498 rushing yards for the year second only to Josh Allen for quarterbacks. Allen has more designed runs so Herbert actually led in scramble yards. He also ran for 57 more yards during the wildcard game.
With a defense that could hold the Patriots to 16 points, a healthier offense would go a long way to getting them further in the playoffs next year. The story is they only mustered 3 points on wildcard Sunday and they're season is over. That also means an 0-3 playoff record for Herbert. The spectacular talent has failed in spectacular fashion in the postseason so far.
As far as prospects for next year in the AFC West, all the players listed above are returning. Also the Chiefs are wounded minus Patrick Mahomes so the division could be up for grabs. The Broncos are reigning AFC West champs. They are loaded on defense, with a veteran coach, and a promising young quarterback. The Chargers with all their injury woes were still able to make it a race for the division. Reinforcements including the injured players and perhaps an extra playmaker on the outside may make a huge difference.
So the first point of order is health, then there is continuity with Herbert and Coach Jim Harbaugh growing together. While the future is still bright next year might be critical for Herbert's young legacy. He'll be looking to quiet doubters who consider him overrated and who currently can point to his lack of playoff success. As great as he did scrambling, he needs a solid and healthy offensive line to protect him because he is the franchise.
For now the team will lick their wounds and for the competitors they have at Quarterback and head coach, training camp can't come soon enough.