Getty
LA Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh
With a new offensive coordinator, the Los Angeles Chargers can start planning how they want the offense to shape in Jim Harbaugh’s third season as the head coach.
Mike McDaniel, who was formerly the head coach of the Miami Dolphins, will be the next offensive playcaller for the team.
The head coach was a hot commodity in the hiring cycle, even getting some head coaching interviews before ultimately deciding to end up in Los Angeles.
Now, with Justin Herbert as his quarterback, McDaniel could have the Bolts’ offense as one of the best in the league.
Looking at the roster, the offensive receiving core requires a little makeover in the offseason.
Adding Former Second Round Pick
GettyThe Chargers offense could get an offensive weapon
The 2026 NFL season will see the Los Angeles Chargers without long-time player Keenan Allen, who returned to the team on a one-year deal.
Jim Harbaugh mentioned that he would like Allen to return, but there have been no talks of the teams in negotiations to retain him.
If the Bolts are unable to keep the player who has been with the team for 12 years, even back in the San Diego days, Los Angeles is urged to try and get a young, proven player.
FanSided’s Rucker Haringey believes the Chargers should attempt to sign wide receiver George Pickens, who last played for the Dallas Cowboys.
“The Chargers need to rebuild their offensive line in the offseason, but they can also aid quarterback Justin Herbert by giving him more talented receivers. In particular, Los Angeles needs a true X receiver to help open up things for their offense,” Haringey wrote.
“Signing Pickens would also allow the Chargers to deploy Ladd McConkey in the slot more often. That’s where the former Georgia standout does his best work. He put up big numbers for the team in 2025 but they can get more efficiency from him via the attention Pickens can garner on his outside routes.”
Pickens recorded over 1,000 receiving yards last season, a notable feat that no other catching target was able to achieve for the Bolts.
In his career, the wide receiver has accrued over 4,000 receiving yards on 267 receptions and logged 21 touchdown catches.
The former Cowboy has averaged 16 yards per catch through his four-year career and could be a good mid-field threat for Justin Herbert going downfield.
What Would It Take To Bring George Pickens
GettyGeorge Pickens played the first three seasons of his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers
Luring George Pickens to Los Angeles would be a bit of an issue for the Chargers, considering what type of free agency market he will have.
Pickens will be one of the top free agents at his position and one of the most coveted in free agency.
For a player of his talents, the wide receiver will be demanding a handsome contract, something the Bolts may be able to use in their favor.
The Chargers have over $80 million in cap space, which is more than enough room to negotiate a deal Pickens believes he deserves.
Pairing up with Mike McDaniel and Justin Herbert, playing for the Bolts may be the best option for Pickens career.
Jason Garcia Jason Garcia is a sports contributor for Heavy Sports who joined the team in 2025, covering the New England Patriots, Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers. More about Jason Garcia
More Heavy on Chargers
Loading more stories