NFL Los Angeles Chargers Training Camp
Jim Harbaugh Sends Clear Message on Mike McDaniel's Future Amid Chargers Struggles 1
The Los Angeles Chargers left Seattle with another loss on Sunday, falling 30-23 to the Seahawks and dropping to 0-4. Head coach Jim Harbaugh faced reporters afterward with the offense under heavy fire. One question about his coordinator stood out, and his initial response drew immediate attention.
Jim Harbaugh sends clear message on Mike McDaniel’s future
Harbaugh was asked whether Mike McDaniel‘s job as offensive coordinator was at risk after the loss. He began with a general answer about skilled coaches and growth, paused, then realized he had not answered the question.
“No, no, no, his job is not in jeopardy,” Harbaugh said,
After starting the season 0-4, Jim Harbaugh had this to say about offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel https://t.co/lvz8Y33Hty
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) October 5, 2026
The vote of confidence came with the offense still searching for answers. Los Angeles scored a season-high 23 points and outgained Seattle 301 to 286 in total yards, but the passing game kept stalling.
NFL Arizona Cardinals at Los Angeles ChargersNFL Arizona Cardinals at Los Angeles Chargers
Sep 13, 2026; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh stands on the field with offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel prior to a game against the Arizona Cardinals at SoFi Stadium.at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Liang-Imagn Images
Justin Herbert threw two interceptions and lost a fumble on the final drive after a strip sack. He now has six interceptions against four touchdowns this season and has been sacked 12 times.
The numbers explain why the question came up. Before Sunday, the Chargers averaged only 14.7 points per game, and their offense ranked 30th in expected points added per play.
Harbaugh also took a share of the blame, saying the game plan did not lead to a win and the staff would go back to work. The Chargers have lost seven straight games dating to last season.
How Herbert views McDaniel adds another layer to this story.
Justin Herbert backs Mike McDaniel despite offensive struggles
McDaniel was hired in January, weeks after the Miami Dolphins fired him as head coach. Harbaugh moved on from longtime coordinator Greg Roman to bring him in, hoping he could lift Herbert and the offense.
The quarterback was asked about the new system and kept backing his coordinator.. “I think (McDaniel) is the greatest and I want to make him proud and do everything I can to pick up the offense and do exactly what he asks,” Herbert told reporters.
NFL Los Angeles Chargers Training Camp 1NFL Los Angeles Chargers Training Camp 1
Jul 31, 2026; El Segundo, CA, USA; Los Angeles Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel (left) and quarterback Justin Herbert (10) during training camp at The Bolt. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Herbert also said he needs to make more plays himself, though he liked the long drives the offense strung together in the second half. His 59.7 completion percentage and 70.6 passer rating are well below his career averages.
Harbaugh had already called on Herbert to improve after the 0-3 start. Some fans and former Chargers have called for a change, but the head coach and his quarterback are standing together for now.
The Chargers sit last in the AFC West at 0-4 and host the 2-2 Broncos on October 11 at SoFi Stadium. Denver arrives with a steady record, while Los Angeles needs its offense to finally match its coach’s confidence.
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