The Los Angeles Chargers have a new offensive coordinator. Mike McDaniel is joining the team. He will work under head coach Jim Harbaugh. This comes after McDaniel’s departure from the Miami Dolphins. He was their head coach for four seasons. The Chargers made the official announcement on a Monday. McDaniel is considered a top offensive play-calling candidate.
Dolphins Tenure and Firing
McDaniel previously led the Dolphins. He was their head coach from 2022 to 2025. His record in Miami was 35 wins and 33 losses. The Dolphins made the playoffs twice under McDaniel. This marked consecutive playoff appearances for Miami. It was the first time in over 20 years for the franchise. McDaniel became the 11th head coach in Dolphins history. However, the team decided on significant changes. Owner Stephen Ross informed McDaniel of his dismissal on January 8, 2026. This followed the team’s second consecutive season missing the playoffs. McDaniel’s tenure ended after four seasons.
Strategic Offensive Mind
McDaniel is known for his offensive schemes. He has a reputation for producing explosive offenses. The Dolphins’ offense ranked highly in yards and points during his tenure. In 2023, Miami led the NFL in total offense. They also led in passing offense that season. The team ranked second in scoring offense. In 2023, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa led the league in passing yards. That offense also featured a 4,000-yard passer, two 1,000-yard receivers, and a 1,000-yard rusher. This achievement placed them among rare company in NFL history. McDaniel also served as offensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers in 2021. He worked under Kyle Shanahan there.
Joining the Chargers
Jim Harbaugh became the Chargers’ head coach in 2024. He had hired Greg Roman as his offensive coordinator. However, the Chargers’ offense struggled to maximize quarterback Justin Herbert‘s talent. They finished their second consecutive 11-6 season with a playoff exit. Following this, Harbaugh fired Roman. McDaniel emerged as a leading candidate for the OC position. He had interviewed for several head coaching jobs this cycle. This included the Raiders and Bills. However, he ultimately accepted the Chargers’ offer. The move reunites him with the Shanahan coaching tree, as Harbaugh also has ties to it.
Impact on Chargers Offense
McDaniel’s hiring signals a shift in offensive philosophy for the Chargers. He is known for modern and versatile schemes. This contrasts with the Chargers’ previous reliance on stretching the field. McDaniel’s offense aims to make Herbert’s job easier. It will likely offer simpler targets. Herbert’s talent, including his arm strength and mobility, will be key. The Chargers’ offense also expects a boost from the healthy return of tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt. These players are considered top talents at their positions. Herbert passed for 3,727 yards and 26 touchdowns last season. He did this without a true No. 1 receiver exceeding 800 yards. The Chargers look to build a more potent attack under McDaniel.
Coaching Roots
McDaniel’s coaching career began as an intern for the Denver Broncos in 2005. He has a long history in offensive roles. He coached for teams like the Texans, Redskins, Browns, Falcons, and 49ers. His connection to Kyle Shanahan is significant. McDaniel served under Shanahan in San Francisco from 2017 to 2021. He was the run game coordinator for four seasons before becoming offensive coordinator in 2021. This experience shaped his offensive approach. His move to the Chargers marks a new chapter in his career. It is a notable transition from head coach to offensive coordinator. This hiring is a significant development in NFL news and sports.
