Chargers’ Foundation Set, But Renovations Are Underway
The Los Angeles Chargers are poised for a significant overhaul, with general manager Joe Hortiz and coach Jim Harbaugh in agreement that the team’s foundation is solid, but growth is necessary. After back-to-back first-round playoff exits, the Chargers are looking to revamp their offense, starting with the departure of offensive coordinator Greg Roman and offensive line coach Mike Devlin. As Hortiz aptly put it, “You’ve got a nice structure, and that’s what we have here. But we’re going to keep renovating every room.”
The team’s offense will continue to revolve around quarterback Justin Herbert, but Harbaugh is seeking a fresh start with a new “head coach of the offense.” Under Roman, the Chargers struggled in the playoffs, scoring only one touchdown across two games. Harbaugh hopes to bring in a new coordinator with a “physical” identity, which will be an attractive position for candidates, given the opportunity to work with Herbert. As Hortiz noted, “We want to win the Super Bowl, and so we’ve got to get better.”
Coaching Changes and Free Agency
In addition to Roman and Devlin’s departures, linebackers coach NaVorro Bowman is leaving the Chargers to focus on his son’s college recruitment process. The team may also see defensive coordinator Jesse Minter depart for a head coaching job. Meanwhile, Hortiz aims to utilize the Chargers’ projected $100 million in salary-cap space to retain pending free agents, including outside linebackers Odafe Oweh and Khalil Mack, wide receiver Keenan Allen, and left guard Zion Johnson.
Hortiz emphasized the importance of being smart with their spending, stating, “We’ll spend money, but we’re going to spend money internally too, because there’s a lot of guys we’d like to have back.” The Chargers have not yet discussed the fifth-year option for wide receiver Quentin Johnston. As the team navigates these changes, one thing is clear: Hortiz won’t consider any season a success until the Chargers claim their first Super Bowl title.
Looking Ahead
The Chargers’ renovation process is underway, with a focus on finding the right pieces to complement Herbert and propel the team to success. With a solid foundation in place, the team is poised to make significant strides in the coming season. As Harbaugh and Hortiz work to build a championship-caliber team, fans can expect a fresh start and a new direction for the Chargers’ offense. For more information on the Chargers’ offseason plans, visit Here
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