The Los Angeles Chargers’ 2025 season concluded in a disheartening fashion as they fell to the New England Patriots with a score of 16-3 during the playoffs. Quarterback Justin Herbert faced relentless pressure, getting hit 11 times and sacked six times. Even when afforded time, he struggled to find his rhythm, opting for shorter passes instead of taking risks downfield. This defeat marks Herbert’s third unsuccessful playoff appearance, with the Chargers scoring a mere 15 points across the last two postseason games.
As the Chargers enter what promises to be a pivotal offseason, the urgency to improve is palpable. While the return of Pro Bowl tackles Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater from injury will bolster the offensive line—previously plagued by a league-high 74 quarterback hits—these reinforcements alone may not suffice to elevate the team to Super Bowl contender status.
Seizing Opportunity in the AFC West
For the first five years of Herbert’s career, the Chargers often found themselves trailing behind the Kansas City Chiefs in the competitive AFC West. Despite a strong showing in head-to-head matchups, they consistently fell short of capitalizing on opportunities, settling for wild-card berths. This season marked a significant shift as the Chargers triumphed in both encounters against the Chiefs, with Herbert outshining Patrick Mahomes in both contests.
With Mahomes recovering from a torn ACL and uncertainty surrounding key players like Travis Kelce and Chris Jones, the Chiefs may be entering a transition phase. This scenario presents the Chargers with a prime opportunity to contend for the division title in 2026, especially as they boast the best quarterback in the division. However, the Chargers’ failure to secure the AFC West title this year—despite the Chiefs’ struggles—leaves them with much to address in the coming months.
The Chargers rank among the leaders in projected salary cap space, signaling potential for strategic additions this offseason. They face several pressing needs, particularly within the offensive line. The performance of Mekhi Becton fell short of expectations, underscoring the necessity for reinforcements. Targeting a player such as Tyler Linderbaum, a three-time Pro Bowl center from the Baltimore Ravens, could significantly enhance both Herbert’s performance and the running game led by rookie sensation Omarion Hampton, who showed promise despite a serious ankle injury.
Defensively, the Chargers require another impactful pass-rusher alongside Pro Bowler Tuli Tuipulotu. With key defensive players like Derwin James entering their 30s, the need for youth and vigor in the lineup is critical. A strong draft class could provide the necessary infusion of talent to revitalize an aging defense.
Coaching Decisions Loom Large
In addition to player acquisitions, the Chargers face important coaching decisions. Defensive coordinator Jesse Minter has garnered interest for head coaching positions, and his potential departure would be a significant setback for a defense that has consistently exceeded expectations. Simultaneously, offensive coordinator Greg Roman has faced scrutiny over the Chargers’ offensive inconsistency in recent seasons. Head coach Jim Harbaugh has not publicly supported Roman, stating, “We’re gonna look at that and everything,” when questioned about Roman’s future with the team.
The Chargers have several compelling candidates available this offseason, ranging from experienced head coaches like Mike McDaniel and Raheem Morris to emerging talents such as Davis Webb, the pass-game coordinator for the Denver Broncos. The right choice in coordinator could be pivotal, as exemplified by the recent success of the Philadelphia Eagles.
While Herbert and Harbaugh provide a solid foundation for the team, the Chargers must address these issues to elevate their status to that of a true Super Bowl contender. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the Chargers can finally overcome their postseason hurdles and seize their opportunity in the competitive AFC landscape.
