The Los Angeles Chargers are set to hire former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel as their offensive coordinator, assuming that he does not get the head coaching job with the Las Vegas Raiders.
It's difficult to overstate how exciting this has the potential to be. The Chargers desperately needed fresh ideas after moving on from Greg Roman. McDaniel has the play-calling acumen and the innovative spirit to truly maximize the Los Angeles offense and the talents of Justin Herbert.
Although his final two years in Miami went poorly, his first two seasons as a head coach prove what he is capable of. The Dolphins finished sixth in total offense in 2022 and first in 2023. McDaniel weaponized their array of offensive talent in dominant fashion during those years.
There is something more specific to be gleaned from McDaniel's Miami years, however. Part of his offensive success came down to his ability to mobilize running back De'Von Achane in the passing game. Can he do the same for Omarion Hampton?
Omarion Hampton's skill-set in the pass game could be unlocked under Mike McDaniel
In his three three seasons under McDaniel, Achane turned into one of the league's star running backs. Although he played just 11 games in his rookie season, when the Dolphins' offense was at its peak, his second and third years in the NFL were undeniably impressive.
Although Miami finished 13th in total rushing yards in 2025, Achane finished 238 attempts for 1,350 yards and eight touchdowns. Where he has truly been special, however, is in the passing game.
Last season, Achane finished with 67 receptions for 488 yards and four touchdowns on 85 targets. He finished sixth among running backs in total receiving yards.
Hampton and Achane possess similar skill-sets in that sense. In his final college season at North Carolina, Hampton amassed 38 receptions for 373 yards. In just nine games as a rookie, he posted 32 receptions for 192 yards.
With the way the Chargers offensive line played this year, one thing became abundantly clear. Herbert needs better passing outlets schemed into the offense when pressure forces him to get the ball out early.
Hampton is not a bruising back, but he is quick and crafty. McDaniel should be able to weaponize him in the passing game similarly to Achane.
Obviously, this will depend on Hampton's ability to stay healthy in his sophomore season. But we could easily see him take a star trajectory similar to Achane's under McDaniel's guidance and scheme.