Justin Herbert 'Confused and Overwhelmed' in New Chargers Offense, Per Report
An anonymous NFL evaluator told ESPN that the Chargers quarterback appears lost in the system installed by new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel.
The Los Angeles Chargers' offense is struggling to find its footing, with quarterback Justin Herbert reportedly appearing "confused and overwhelmed" in the new system.
An anonymous NFL evaluator shared this assessment with ESPN NFL Insider Dan Graziano, noting that the Chargers' offensive struggles have been evident through their three losses in the initial part of the season. The team acquired new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel in the offseason, with expectations that he would elevate the offense.
McDaniel, who previously spent four seasons as head coach of the Miami Dolphins, was credited with a Dolphins offense that finished sixth in the NFL in 2023. However, his offensive production declined in his final two seasons, ranking 19th in 2024 and 26th in 2025.
The offensive scheme implemented by McDaniel reportedly emphasizes quick reads and a fast release, a departure from Herbert's career tendencies of throwing deep and utilizing play-action.
Herbert's statistics this season reflect these challenges. He has completed 59.1% of his passes for 627 yards, with three touchdowns and four interceptions. In the Chargers' recent 24-16 loss to the Buffalo Bills, the offense had opportunities to capitalize on a defense that forced five turnovers but faltered in the red zone and struggled to establish a consistent running game.
Graziano noted that the "run game can't get going, the receivers haven't taken the jumps we were promised, and Herbert has looked confused and overwhelmed by whatever it is he's being asked to do out there."
Despite the offensive struggles, Herbert's performance against the Bills, where he completed 17 of 27 passes for 209 yards with one touchdown and one interception, was enough to outperform Bills quarterback Josh Allen, who had two interceptions and a fumble in the same game. However, a crucial interception in the end zone late in the game allowed the Bills to secure their lead.
Concerns have been raised that the current personnel on the Chargers may not be a suitable fit for the offensive system McDaniel is trying to implement.