The Los Angeles Chargers entered the 2026 NFL season with legitimate playoff expectations. With Justin Herbert leading the offense and Jim Harbaugh running the sideline, there was plenty of reason to believe this team could compete in the AFC. Instead, the Chargers have become one of the biggest disappointments in football.
Following Sunday’s 24-9 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, the Chargers have fallen to 0-7, making this one of the worst starts in franchise history. Even more concerning is that the team doesn’t appear to have any immediate answers.
Los Angeles had an opportunity to turn things around coming out of its bye week, but the offense once again failed to deliver. The Chargers managed just three field goals and have now gone two consecutive games without scoring a touchdown.
Justin Herbert and the Offense Are Struggling
Perhaps the most disappointing part of this season has been watching Herbert struggle. The franchise quarterback threw two interceptions against the Rams, continuing a troubling trend of turnovers that has made life difficult for the entire offense.
Herbert finished with 257 passing yards, but the production didn’t translate into points. The running game was equally disappointing, averaging just 2.6 yards per carry.
Offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel has also come under increasing criticism, but Harbaugh continues to stand behind him as the team’s play caller.
Is There Any Saving This Season?
The Chargers are dealing with problems on both sides of the football. Injuries have played a major role, with important players missing time, including safety Derwin James, who was recently placed on injured reserve.
At 0-7, Los Angeles has very little room for error. The team is already facing an uphill battle just to become competitive again, and the upcoming schedule won’t make things any easier.
Harbaugh has built a reputation as a winner, but even he hasn’t been able to find answers.
The Chargers’ season is quickly turning into a nightmare, and fans have every reason to be frustrated. What was supposed to be a playoff contender is now the NFL’s last winless team. Unless something changes immediately, this season could become one the organization wants to forget.
