Chargers Bolster Coaching Staff Ahead of 2027 Season to Strengthen Run Game

The Los Angeles Chargers are making strategic coaching moves to enhance their offensive performance ahead of the 2027 season. With the additions of Adam Gase, a new offensive line coach, and Chandler Henley, the team is aiming to improve its running game while supporting quarterback Justin Herbert.

Henley, previously a senior offensive assistant with the Miami Dolphins, will reunite with Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, adding continuity to the staff. The Yale graduate has prior NFL experience with the Falcons and Titans, bringing a versatile background to Los Angeles’ offensive setup.

Gase, known for his expertise in the run game, is expected to collaborate closely with the new offensive line coach to establish a more balanced attack. These additions align with the Chargers’ broader goal of maximizing the effectiveness of their ground game.

Los Angeles enters the offseason with momentum but also urgency. After an 11-6 season that ended in a Wild Card loss to the New England Patriots, the team is emphasizing coaching upgrades and strategic planning to maintain its championship window.

1. Strengthening the Run Game

The Chargers’ latest hires focus squarely on bolstering the ground attack. Adam Gase brings a wealth of NFL experience, and his presence should complement both the offensive line coach and McDaniel’s system. By emphasizing the run, the Chargers hope to reduce pressure on Herbert and diversify their offensive threats. Chandler Henley’s return alongside McDaniel reinforces the connection between coordinator and staff. Henley spent the past four seasons with the Dolphins and brings a reputation for developing quarterbacks and designing effective running schemes. His expertise could help refine the timing and execution of Los Angeles’ rushing attack. The Chargers’ backfield struggled at times last season, culminating in only 22 points over their final three games, including the playoff loss to New England. By investing in coaching talent, the team aims to correct those inefficiencies and create a more dynamic offense. With Gase, Henley, and a new offensive line coach all contributing, Los Angeles seeks a more balanced approach. The goal is to keep defenses honest while creating opportunities for explosive plays both on the ground and through the air.

2. Leadership and Urgency

Head coach Jim Harbaugh has emphasized a sense of urgency in building the team for sustained success. “There’s always a sense of urgency,” he said. “We feel like we have a lot to build on. Just keep moving forward with urgency. Aggressively attacking it.” General manager Joe Horitz echoed the sentiment, highlighting the team’s ultimate goal: a Super Bowl title. “We want to win the Super Bowl, so we got to get better,” Horitz said, signaling that these coaching changes are part of a broader strategy. Harbaugh’s approach combines aggressive adjustments with a focus on fundamentals. By adding experienced assistants and reconnecting McDaniel with trusted colleagues, the Chargers hope to create a culture that maximizes both preparation and execution. The additions also reflect an awareness that sustained success requires continuous refinement. Harbaugh and McDaniel are building a staff capable of addressing both immediate and long-term performance needs, keeping Los Angeles competitive in a crowded AFC landscape.

3. Supporting Herbert and the Offense

One key objective of these staffing moves is reducing the burden on quarterback Justin Herbert. McDaniel emphasized that his role involves creating an offense that doesn’t force Herbert to make extraordinary plays on every drive. “It can be taxing over time for a player to necessitate an incredible play too often to be able to score points and win football games,” he said. By improving the run game and offensive line play, the Chargers aim to create a more balanced attack that keeps defenses off balance. This should allow Herbert to operate more efficiently while increasing overall scoring potential. The team’s late-season struggles, including a playoff offensive slump, underscore the importance of these changes. A stronger ground game and enhanced offensive line support could prevent similar offensive stagnation in future high-pressure situations. Ultimately, Los Angeles is betting that a well-structured coaching staff will translate into better execution on the field. The combination of veteran leadership, fresh perspectives, and system continuity positions the Chargers to be more competitive in the 2027 season.