Chargers OC Mike McDaniel reveals RB plan that could lead to a committee image
The Los Angeles Chargers are entering the 2026 NFL season with plenty of renewed hope for a postseason run this year. Part of the big reason why is the hiring of Mike McDaniel as their new offensive coordinator.
He had a ton of success with the Miami Dolphins, despite their shaky quarterback play. Now with Justin Herbert, it feels like the sky is the limit with this Chargers offense.
During an interview with reporters, including Alex Insdorf of Bolt Beat, the Chargers' new offensive coordinator revealed his plan for the running back room that could lead to a three-headed committee.
Chargers might use a 3-way RB committee amid Mike McDaniel's plan
"Specifically, I will use all three of those guys every game," McDaniel said about running backs Omarion Hampton, Kimani Vidal, and Keaton Mitchell.
McDaniel believes in Mitchell and Vidal, and of course, Hampton. But, considering Hampton's been the projected RB1 in this backfield, being involved in a committee would mean fewer touches in 2025 for the former first-round RB.
After being drafted 22nd overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, Hampton had 545 rushing yards with four touchdowns on 124 attempts, while catching 32 of 35 targets for 192 yards and a touchdown across nine games as a rookie.
While Hampton was out, Vidal stepped up and was a very productive player. On 153 rushing attempts in 13 games, Vidal had 643 rushing yards with three touchdowns while catching 16 of 22 passes for 136 yards and a TD.
Both of those returning RBs will earn some work in 2026, but newcomer Keaton Mitchell will also see some playing time for the Chargers, according to McDaniel.
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Mitchell ran for 341 yards and a touchdown on 59 attempts for the Baltimore Ravens last year, and caught nine of 12 targets for 63 yards in the receiving game.
He's a very explosive running back who's expected to factor into the Chargers' running back rotation in 2026 alongside Hampton and Vidal.
With McDaniel revealing his intention to utilize all three this upcoming season, Hampton likely shouldn't be viewed as a potential bell-cow running back.
That's not a bad thing, especially with how good Vidal looked last year, and the explosive play-making ability that Mitchell brings to the Chargers offense.
Hampton should still be the lead back for the Chargers, but fans should expect to see plenty of Vidal and Mitchell this upcoming season.
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