Chargers seek radical fixes after Rams loss
With a 0-7 record, analysts suggest the San Francisco franchise should sideline its quarterback and trade assets before the Nov. 10 deadline.
By Ethan Cook ·
The Los Angeles Chargers face a decision: continue with their current strategy or abandon it entirely. After a 24-9 defeat to the Rams on Sunday, the team sits at 0-7. Coach Jim Harbaugh urged the squad to show "no quit, no surrender" following the loss. However, the season appears effectively over, prompting calls for drastic changes in the remaining 10 games.
One proposed change involves the quarterback position. Justin Herbert threw for a season-high 257 yards on Sunday but also recorded his ninth and tenth interceptions of the year, leading the NFL in turnovers. Some suggest benching Herbert to protect his health and allow DJ Uiagalelei or Trey Lance to start. Herbert has appeared out of sync with offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel's system, which relies heavily on player motion.
The running back room offers another area for adjustment. Omarion Hampton and Najee Johnston were both first-round picks, yet neither has assumed a primary role. Hampton carried the ball nine times for 20 yards against the Rams. Johnston caught four passes for 37 yards. The coaching staff currently rotates Hampton with Kimani Vidal and Keaton Mitchell, while Ladd McConkey has drawn more targets in the passing game than Johnston.
General Manager Joe Hortiz has resisted the urge to sell off assets, a stance influenced by his background in Philadelphia and Baltimore. Critics point to the Los Angeles Angels' decision to keep Shohei Ohtani before his free agency as a cautionary example. While trading Herbert is unlikely, moving other pieces before the Nov. 10 deadline could provide value.
Offensive complexity is a persistent complaint among observers. The suggestion to let Herbert call plays from the huddle is an exaggeration, but it reflects a desire for simplicity. The current system includes numerous motions that confuse spectators. Simplifying the approach could help the offense function more effectively on the artificial turf at SoFi Stadium.
The Chargers play the Houston Texans at SoFi Stadium on Sunday. The Texans currently hold a 2-5 record. The team travels to Baltimore on Nov. 16 to face the Ravens, who are 4-4 without Lamar Jackson. The schedule concludes this month with a home game against the New York Jets on Nov. 22. The Jets are 2-6.
