The Chargers Were Never Built for Playoff Football

This level of dysfunction prevents an offense from establishing a run game, controlling the clock, and sustaining drives. The Chargers finished 24th in scoring despite being 12th in total yards. This indicates they moved the ball effectively at times but often failed to capitalize in the red zone or on crucial downs.

Are Playoff Failures Herbert’s Legacy?

Even with a struggling line and inconsistent coaching, the Chargers still made the playoffs — a testament to their talent and regular-season resolve. But once there, they reverted to a pattern that has haunted this franchise. In their 16–3 wildcard loss, Herbert was sacked six times and limited to 159 passing yards. The offense managed just 207 total yards.

That loss marked Herbert’s third consecutive playoff defeat. In his three postseason starts combined, he has thrown just two touchdowns against four interceptions, along with a lost fumble. His playoff passer rating ranks near the bottom among quarterbacks with similar sample sizes, which sharply contrasts with his strong regular-season performances.

Yet it’s too simplistic to blame Herbert entirely. The weak line, schematic limitations, and lack of a consistent offensive identity have hampered this offense when it matters most.

Coaching and Scheme Issues

A particularly damaging trend this season, though not unfamiliar to many longtime NFL fans, was the performance of offensive coordinator Greg Roman. Known for heavy run concepts and power formations, Roman’s scheme often seemed ill-suited for Herbert’s strengths. Herbert is a quick, rhythm-based passer with incredible strength and accuracy. Especially in a game where protection is shaky, relying on power-heavy looks without enough quick, adjustable options weakened the Chargers’ attack.

Two days after the playoff loss, the Chargers fired Roman and offensive line coach Mike Devlin. This clearly acknowledged that their performance was inadequate. However, it’s hard to feel happy about their dismissals when it was obvious throughout the season that the play-calling and offensive line were major liabilities.

Beyond their scheme, the Chargers have a wealth of weapons. They feature veteran Keenan Allen, two highly capable playmakers in Ladd McConkey and Quentin Johnston, and promising rookie talent, yet still struggle to identify and establish a definitive #1 receiver clearly. Additionally, this lack of clarity worsens issues when time and space are limited.

The Next Steps While Looking Ahead

The 2025 season ultimately revealed a harsh truth. As currently constructed, the Chargers were a solid regular-season team but not equipped for playoff football. To change that narrative in 2026, several key shifts are necessary.

1. Health at the Tackles

Getting both Slater and Alt fully healthy and back in the fold would immediately boost the offensive line from one of the league’s worst to at least a competent unit.

2. Rethinking the O-Line Personnel:

Removing underperformers, especially Bozeman, and acquiring top-tier tackles and guards through free agency or the draft should be the top priority.

3. Offensive Identity:

With Roman gone, the Chargers need a coordinator who can tailor the offense to Herbert’s strengths: quick, creative passing concepts that reduce sack rates and maximize opportunities for explosive plays.

External candidates with proven offensive skills should also be considered. If neither land another HC job, Brian Daboll and Mike McDaniel should both be top priorities. Internally, Chargers’ QB Coach Shane Day should be considered. With Herbert entering his seventh year in the NFL, he will now have his fifth OC. Adding a familiar face to the options is worth trying at the very least.

4. Defensive Stability:

While the offense is the most obvious issue for the team, defensive improvement still matters. Keeping games close is essential for credible playoff chances. Although the Bolts did well at this for most of the season, with a strong record in one-score games, playoff blowouts are more critical than narrow wins during the regular season. If Jesse Minter is hired as an HC elsewhere, Los Angeles will face the challenge of finding a new OC and DC in a competitive cycle.

Defensive backs coach Steve Clinkscale could be an option for a revamped defense, but it will be hard to predict how the unit will change either way. Khalil Mack might retire, and other key players could look for new teams.

Ultimately, the Chargers’ season served as a reminder that talent alone isn’t enough; structure and support are crucial in playoff football. With strategic offseason moves and improved health, they could become a real playoff contender. Only then can Herbert and this roster start to challenge the idea that playoff wins are forever out of reach.