The reported hiring of Mike McDaniel could be a turning point for Justin Herbert and the Chargers. With an offense built on motion, spacing and efficiency, Herbert may finally have a system designed to elevate — not exhaust — his elite talent.
The Chargers are reportedly set to hire Mike McDaniel as their next offensive coordinator, and if the move becomes official, it could mark the most important decision of the Jim Harbaugh era so far. After years of watching Justin Herbert carry an offense that too often felt rigid and predictable, Los Angeles may finally be giving its franchise quarterback a system built around modern concepts, creativity and — most importantly — efficiency.
For all of Herbert’s physical gifts, his NFL career has been a study in contradiction. He has consistently ranked among the league leaders in arm talent, toughness and raw production, yet the Chargers’ offense has rarely felt ahead of the curve. Too often, Herbert was asked to be the solution rather than being supported by one. That’s where McDaniel comes in.
McDaniel’s offensive philosophy is centered on spacing, motion and creating easy answers for the quarterback. During his time in Miami, he transformed Tua Tagovailoa from a limited, timing-based passer into one of the most efficient quarterbacks in football. He did it by leaning into what defenses struggle with most: pre-snap motion, misdirection and stressing defenders horizontally as much as vertically. Now imagine those same principles applied to a quarterback with Herbert’s arm strength and size.
One of the biggest benefits Herbert would see immediately is a reduction in “hero ball.” Under previous systems, the Chargers frequently found themselves in long-yardage situations, asking Herbert to convert third-and-long by fitting passes into impossibly tight windows. McDaniel’s offense thrives on staying ahead of the chains. Quick-hitting concepts, schemed open receivers and a heavy dose of yards after catch would allow Herbert to play faster and smarter, not harder.
Another major change would come in how the Chargers use motion and personnel. McDaniel is one of the best in the league at identifying matchups before the snap and forcing defenses to declare their coverage. That alone could elevate Herbert’s efficiency, particularly against the two-high looks that have given the Chargers trouble in recent seasons. With clearer reads and defined throws, Herbert’s already elite processing speed could truly shine.
There’s also the question of maximizing the run game. McDaniel’s background in the Shanahan system places a premium on the ground attack, not just for balance, but as a weapon to manipulate defensive fronts. A more effective run game would take pressure off Herbert and open up play-action opportunities — an area where he has been effective but underutilized.
Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of this hire is philosophical. Hiring McDaniel would signal that Harbaugh has learned from past mistakes. After leaning too heavily on familiarity with previous coaching hires, this move would represent a willingness to adapt and embrace where the league is headed offensively. For a coach often labeled as old-school, it would be a significant evolution.
Ultimately, Justin Herbert doesn’t need to be fixed. He needs to be unleashed correctly. If Mike McDaniel is indeed the Chargers’ next offensive coordinator, Herbert may finally have an offense designed to accentuate his strengths rather than test his limits every Sunday. And for a franchise desperate to take the next step, that could make all the difference.