Analyst has big Chargers projection, but there's monster 'if' attached

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Analyst has big Chargers projection, but there's monster 'if' attached originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Los Angeles Chargers remain an enigma for me in 2026. We don't truly know what we are going to get.

But in Jim Harbaugh's third season, this is the most bullish fans should be on L.A., simply because of the offensive coordinator and the signings made this offseason.

Mike McDaniel will be tasked with getting the most out of Justin Herbert, and the offensive line "should" be far healthier than it was a year ago.

And for Sports Illustrated's Eva Geitheim, that is where the reason for hope lands in 2026.

“The offensive line should be better,” Geitheim wrote. “After Justin Herbert took 54 sacks last season, the Chargers added Tyler Biadasz and Jake Slaughter. With Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater returning from injury, the Chargers should be well-positioned to keep their music video star upright and able to secure his first playoff win.”

MORE: 1 Chiefs player key to 2026 hope

Big if attached to season hope for Chargers​

Staying healthy hasn't been easy for the Chargers over the past couple of seasons.

But with Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater back, the additions of Tyler Biadasz and Jake Slaughter, the Chargers' offensive line should be much improved in 2026...if they can stay healthy.

Are we expecting Alt and Slater to go a full season without missing time? That's the goal, but color me skeptical about it happening for now. A big offseason is needed for the Chargers as they look to finally unlock Herbert's potential.

Which will be far easier if he isn't picking himself up off the turf another 54 times.

More NFL news:​

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• Chargers fans will love GM's quote on Derwin James' future
• Jets' OC hints at offensive style for Geno Smith
• Patriots' Hunter Henry reveals underrated aspect of Drake Maye's second year
• Ravens reason for 2026 optimism not centered on Lamar Jackson

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