Mike McDaniel is officially the offensive coordinator of the Los Angeles Chargers. After his introductory press conference, one thing is clear: he is focused on winning in LA. But, as we know, the current roster is not built for that.
Despite injuries, there are still glaring needs for this Chargers team. Whether it is the interior of the offensive line or extra weapons for Herbert, there is plenty of room for improvement.
With the draft and free agency around the corner, the Chargers will have the opportunity to make these corrections. As the Charges take a big swing with McDaniel at OC, it's time they take some swings at some big names to help him out.
RB Rice Dowdle
McDaniel is a master at using the run game. It is clear that Omarion Hampton is the go-to running back for the Chargers, so they don't need a RB1. Kimani Vidal did a respectable job as a backup, but behind him, there is not a lot of depth. Carolina Panthers' RB Rico Dowdle can fix that.
Dowdle is coming off a stellar year with the Panthers and could easily take over as the No. 2 back for the Chargers next season. Last season, Dowdle garnered 1,076 yards and 6 touchdowns on 236 carries.
That sort of production could fit right in with McDaniels' scheme. Dowdle isn't the greatest pass-catching back, but he could be serviceable with the help of McDaniel. If he wants some extra firepower in the Chargers' RB room, look no further than Rico Dowdle.
C Tyler Linderbaum
If the Chargers are going to splurge some money at any position, it has to be center. Bradley Bozeman was beyond awful for the Chargers last season. If the Chargers truly want to fix their offensive line, use that cap space on Baltimore Ravens C Tyler Linderbaum.
Linderbaum is going to be one of the most sought-after free agents on the market. Last year, he was ranked No. 5 among centers in the league, according to Pro Football Focus. He was middle of the pack in pass blocking, but his run blocking was great.
Having Linderbaum would benefit Herbert, the running backs, and McDaniel himself. The Chargers can simply not go out there with the same interior line next season, regardless of Joe Alt or Rashawn Slater's health. Let McDaniel use the run game the way he wants and get Tyler Linderbaum.
WR Keenan Allen
The Los Angeles Chargers have already made the mistake of letting Keenan Allen go once before. As long as Allen wants to play, he needs to be a Charger. Whatever it takes, get it done.
Allen still has plenty of juice left in the tank. Keeping him on the team wouldn't be a move of fan service; he is a bona fide contributor.
This season, Allen put up 777 yards and four touchdowns on 81 receptions. "Third-and-Keenan" was very much alive during his return season in LA, and the Chargers need him.
With Ladd McConkey, Tre Harris, and Quentin Johnston making up the rest of the receiving room, having Allen to continue to guide them is the best thing the Chargers could have. He may not have the raw speed that other WRs that McDaniel has used, but his pristine route running is something he can absolutely use.