Chargers Make QB Move After 5 Straight Losses

Mark Konezny-Imagn Images

Chargers Make QB Move After 5 Straight Losses

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Oct 14, 2026 10:20 AM ET

The Los Angeles Chargers have added quarterback Jake Browning to their practice squad after losing five straight games. The move comes after backup quarterback Trey Lance was placed on injured reserve with a groin injury, leaving the team needing more depth at the position.

The Athletic’s Noah Furtado reported the signing on Wednesday. Browning joins a Chargers team searching for answers after falling to 0-5 with a 23-17 loss to the Denver Broncos.

Head coach Jim Harbaugh faces growing pressure to improve the offense. The team’s losing streak has exposed problems that extend beyond its quarterback depth.

Chargers have agreed to terms with QB Jake Browning, a source confirmed. Browning is expected to join their practice squad.

The move comes after QB Trey Lance (groin) was placed on IR over the weekend.

QB DJ Uiagalelei remains on the 53.
— Noah Furtado (@bynoahfurtado) October 13, 2026

Justin Herbert’s struggles have added to the team’s concerns. Through five games, he has completed 59.4% of his passes for 937 yards, five touchdowns and seven interceptions.

Browning offers experience that could prove useful if another quarterback becomes unavailable. He previously started games for the Cincinnati Bengals, including seven starts during the 2023 season while Joe Burrow was sidelined.

The practice squad signing does not immediately make Browning the Chargers’ primary backup. However, his arrival gives the coaching staff another experienced option while Lance recovers.

Los Angeles enters its Week 7 bye with time to evaluate its quarterback room and address offensive problems. The additional preparation period could help Browning learn the playbook before the Chargers return to action.

Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh William Liang-Imagn Images

The team faces the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 6, a difficult matchup for a winless squad needing a turnaround. Protecting the football will be essential if Herbert is to help end the losing streak.

For now, Browning provides insurance rather than an immediate solution to the Chargers’ wider struggles. His practice squad role gives Los Angeles flexibility as it assesses its options for the remainder of the season.

ALSO SEE: 2027 NFL Draft Order: Updated 1st-Round Picks Heading Into Week 6

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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