Daiyan Henley explains why Chargers OC Mike McDaniel is ‘more strange’ than Jim Harbaugh

Daiyan Henley sees Mike McDaniel changing Chargers OTA energy

In a clip shared by Alex Insdorf, Henley explained why McDaniel’s personality has already stood out during Chargers OTAs.

Chargers LB Daiyan Henley on OC Mike McDaniel: “He’s just a unique individual. You think Coach Harbaugh has strange moments-well he has more. He makes sure that he involves himself in everything.”

Henley mentioned that McDaniel joined the ILBs huddle towards the end of practice: “Him doing that is just greatly appreciated.”

“I told him today he was gonna get tackled. He said ‘I can’t wait to get tackled, then I’m gonna sue you’.”

That is telling. McDaniel is not limiting himself to the offense. He is making connections across the roster, even with defenders outside his usual meeting rooms.

Jim Harbaugh has not been replaced as Chargers reset offense

The important distinction is that Harbaugh has not gone anywhere. The Chargers’ official 2026 schedule release still identifies Jim Harbaugh as head coach. The change came on offense, with McDaniel stepping in after Greg Roman’s departure.

Los Angeles finished 11-6 in 2025 and reached the postseason, but the offense still needed more with Herbert at the center of it.

McDaniel’s task is to add rhythm, spacing, and easier answers without losing the physical edge Harbaugh values. Henley’s comments suggest he is also setting a tone beyond one side of the ball.

Chargers season outlook gives McDaniel a real test

Henley is expected to be a key defensive voice again. ESPN lists him with 103 tackles, 3.5 sacks, two interceptions, and five passes defended in the 2025 regular season.

The Chargers open their 2026 preseason schedule on August 13 at Houston. Their regular season begins September 13 at SoFi Stadium against the Arizona Cardinals.

McDaniel’s personality will keep producing clips. The bigger question is whether that energy can help the Chargers turn another strong season into a deeper playoff run.