After a brief scare from the Buffalo Bills, Mike McDaniel has officially been named as the offensive coordinator of the Los Angeles Chargers. The offseason dream hire has come true, and the future looks bright.
With an offensive mind as talented as McDaniel, the possibilities of what the Chargers' offense could look like in 2026 are endless. After having a simpler offensive style with Greg Roman, creativity should be welcomed by Jim Harbaugh and the Chargers.
Whatever rookies drafted by LA on the offensive side of the ball are stepping into a great situation. While everyone hopes Justin Herbert can take the next step with McDaniel, three other players are set for a major leap in development under his leadership.
Mike McDaniel unleashes Ladd McConkey
Wide receiver Ladd McConkey's second season in the NFL was disappointing, to put it bluntly.
However, it was not entirely his fault. His skillset just wasn't put in a position to flourish and make him effective. Also, the emergence of Quentin Johnston and the return of Keenan Allen may have hindered the expansion of his involvement.
He only received six fewer targets and one less touchdown this season compared to his first, which may not seem like much of a drop off to some. Despite that, his overall production took a hit, with 16 fewer receptions. Luckily, he should fit quite nicely into McDaniel's plans.
Chargers' fans know what they have with McConkey. He is a much better player than what was shown on the field last season under Greg Roman. With McDaniel calling the plays, McConkey should be able to take a step forward from his rookie season, not back.
Omarion Hampton is highlighted by McDaniel
Running back Omarion Hampton showed lots of promise in his rookie season, despite missing time due to injury.
One of the most exciting parts about welcoming McDaniel to LA is the potential development of Hampton. In his rookie year, the young back played only nine games. With the opportunity he had, Hampton put up 545 yards and four touchdowns on 124 carries.
Those raw numbers don't nearly tell the story of what the eye test does. He showed plenty of flashes of a future star back, and if given both health and the opportunity, he should reach that in year two. The opportunity part will come easily next season under McDaniel.
McDaniel is not only creative in the passing attack. He uses the run extremely well, plays balanced football, and Hampton should be set to carry most of the running duties.
Oronde Gadsden II becomes true TE
Another second-year player in 2026 has what it takes to soar with McDaniel calling plays. Oronde Gadsden II showed a lot of promise in his rookie season, despite a limited role early and some minor drop issues late.
The young tight end out of Syracuse was targeted 69 times last season, bringing in 49 receptions for 664 yards and three touchdowns. His athletic ability was clear, and the potential to be a great TE in LA is there. McDaniel just has to unlock it.
Gadsden is basically a big WR target. His blocking is not one of his strong suits, but a mind like McDaniel will find a way to make his pass-catching abilities useful. It has been a while since the Chargers have had a franchise TE, and McDaniel can solidify him as just that.