Locked On Chargers - Daily Podcast On The Los Angeles Chargers

Daniel Wade and David Droegemeier dive into Chris O'Leary’s first press conference as the Chargers’ new defensive coordinator. They discuss how Chris O'Leary plans to build upon the foundation left by Jesse Minter, aiming to maintain continuity with a system that’s been one of the league’s top defenses over the past two years. The hosts break down the specifics of O'Leary’s defensive philosophy, highlighting his commitment to the “separators” of elite defense: ball disruption, tackling, effort and angles, communication, and block destruction. There’s insight into the coaching staff’s future, with O'Leary making it clear he wants mos...

Daniel Wade and David Droegemeier discuss the importance of re-signing Odafe Oweh, breaking down his standout performance since joining the team and why he should be a priority for 2026 and beyond. The conversation then shifts to the potential return of veteran Khalil Mack, his value to the defense even as he ages, and the possible contract numbers that make sense for both sides. The hosts also address the likelihood of the Chargers retaining most of their defensive staff under new defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary, considering recent coaching changes around the league. There’s speculation around offensive coord...

Daniel Wade and David Droegemeier dive into the high-stakes changes happening with the Chargers' coaching staff. They break down the significance of the new offensive and defensive coordinator hires—Mike McDaniel and Chris O'Leary—and discuss why their performance could be crucial to Jim Harbaugh’s legacy in Los Angeles. The hosts analyze the team's ongoing playoff challenges and shift focus to the upcoming season, exploring what needs to change for the Chargers to finally make a Super Bowl run. They stress the urgency of upgrading the offensive line and retaining a dominant pass rush, emphasizing how critical these moves...

Is embattled wide receiver Tyreek Hill destined for LA? Daniel Wade and David Droegemeier dive into the buzz surrounding new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel and whether the Chargers should pursue Hill from the Dolphins, given Miami's tough salary cap situation. The hosts break down all the reasons why a Tyreek Hill trade is unlikely and potentially undesirable, citing his recent major injury, age, costly contract, and off-the-field concerns. Beyond the Tyreek Hill speculation, the conversation shifts to other key Chargers topics, including the outlook for Ladd McConkey as the potential WR1 in the new offense, the future of current...

Los Angeles Chargers shake up their coaching staff, hiring Chris O’Leary as defensive coordinator and Butch Barry as offensive line coach. Will O’Leary’s familiarity with Jesse Minter’s scheme ignite the defense and bring out the best in stars like Derwin James? The addition of Barry, fresh from Miami, sets the stage for vital improvements in Justin Herbert’s protection and the ground game.Pete Fox, Kenyon Barner, and Jim Daniels break down the coaching moves, debate key offseason priorities—including potential trades for Kyle Pitts and the need for an elite running back—and speculate...

Daniel Wade and David Droegemeier break down the shocking hire of Chris O’Leary as the Chargers’ new defensive coordinator. The guys dive into why O’Leary’s rise from Western Michigan DC to one of the NFL’s youngest coordinators caught everyone off guard, and what this move means for maintaining scheme continuity after losing Jesse Minter. They spotlight O’Leary’s impressive one-year turnaround at Western Michigan and discuss why Jim Harbaugh’s staff-building philosophy makes this hire both exciting and strategic. The discussion also covers potential ramifications for the coaching staff, especially with respected internal candidates like Steve Clink...

Daniel Wade and David Droegemeier break down the debut press conference of new Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel. The hosts dive into McDaniel’s strategic vision for revamping the Chargers offense and making life easier for quarterback Justin Herbert, including building in more "easy buttons" and quick throws to maximize efficiency and protect Herbert behind an often-injured offensive line.The episode covers McDaniel’s approach to scheming open plays, creating larger passing windows, and reducing Herbert’s need for hero ball—issues that plagued the Chargers in recent seasons. Listeners will also hear about McDaniel’s previous successes...

Los Angeles Chargers lock in Mike McDaniel as offensive coordinator, sparking optimism for a high-octane, pass-driven attack led by Justin Herbert. Can McDaniel’s creative play-calling and innovative schemes finally unleash the full potential of weapons like Ladd McConkey, Trey Harris, and Keenan Allen? Pete Fox, Kenjon Barner, Jim Daniels, and Rob Bushka break down what McDaniel’s Miami and San Francisco pedigrees mean for the Bolts—will a revived run game or an explosive aerial assault define the Chargers’ new identity?Attention shifts as the Chargers look to fill the defensive coordinator vacancy, with Steve Clinkscale, Zach Orr...

Daniel Wade and David Droegemeier react to the huge news of Mike McDaniel officially joining the Los Angeles Chargers as offensive coordinator. The guys break down what this means for Justin Herbert and the future of the Chargers offense, and why fans can finally breathe a sigh of relief after all the speculation and waiting. They also dive into more great news on the defensive side: the Chargers have re-signed standout defensive lineman Teair Tart to a three-year extension, solidifying the core of the D-line for the coming seasons. The hosts then explore the impact of Tart’s extension, ho...

 Daniel Wade and David Droegemeier dive deep into the anxiety Chargers fans are feeling as the wait for Mike McDaniel’s official announcement as the new offensive coordinator drags on. They break down the ongoing saga, discuss the reasons for the delay, and weigh McDaniel’s reported interest in the Las Vegas Raiders head coaching job versus the appeal of joining the Chargers under Jim Harbaugh and working with Justin Herbert. The conversation covers the pros and cons of the Raiders’ situation—ownership instability, young weapons, cap space, and the chance to draft a franchise quarterback—against the opportunities and talent...

Daniel Wade and David Droegemeier break down the major news: Jesse Minter is officially leaving the Los Angeles Chargers to become the head coach of the Baltimore Ravens. After leading back-to-back top 10 defenses, the Chargers now face the challenge of finding a new defensive coordinator.  The hosts discuss the implications of Minter’s departure, including the possibility of other defensive coaches like Steve Clinkscale and Mike Elston being poached, and potential candidates to replace Minter. Tune in for analysis on what’s next for the Chargers defense and how the team should respond to this big shakeup. For more update...

Los Angeles Chargers fans rejoice as Mike McDaniel reportedly agrees to become the new offensive coordinator—can his innovative playcalling unlock Justin Herbert’s full potential? Pete Fox Kenjon Barner and Jim Daniels tackle the buzz around McDaniel’s rumored hiring, exploring how his commitment to a run-heavy, creative offense could revitalize stars like Omari Hampton and Ladd McConkey. The squad debates McDaniel’s history of adapting offenses to his quarterbacks, the importance of condensed formations, and boosting the ground game for a more balanced attack. The hosts spotlight the urgent need for a new center amid Bradley Bozeman’s struggle...

Daniel Wade and David Droegemeier address the growing concern among Chargers fans regarding Mike McDaniel’s official signing as offensive coordinator. They break down the latest news and reassure listeners why it’s not time to worry yet, including insider info and reports confirming McDaniel’s near-certain arrival. The hosts also discuss Jesse Minter’s interview updates and his potential return as defensive coordinator, plus what it means for the team. The episode dives deep into the Chargers’ foundational defensive players and promising young talent, analyzing how this impacts the attractiveness of the defensive coordinator position and the upcoming offseason...

The rumors and reports are swirling that the Chargers just landed the best offensive coordinator that Justin Herbert has ever had. Daniel Wade and David Droegemeier break down the reports that Mike McDaniel is set to be hired by the Chargers, and why it could be one of the defining moments of the Jim Harbaugh era. The hosts break down the proven track record of the top offensive coordinator option on the market and moving the LA offense into the modern football world. One of the other reasons they landed their guy is the young group of skill position...

Los Angeles Chargers face a pivotal offseason as Jim Harbaugh searches for both an offensive coordinator and, likely, a new defensive coordinator. Hosts Pete Fox, Kenyon Barner, and Jim Daniels debate top candidates—including Brian Daboll, Drew Terrell, and Arthur Smith—unpacking their leadership styles, emotional maturity, and track records. Can the right OC unlock Justin Herbert’s potential, and will promoting from within stabilize a defense that’s shown playoff-caliber flashes?The Squad breaks down internal options like Shane Day and Marcus Brady, weighs the value of fresh ideas versus continuity, and examines how the next hires co...

Daniel Wade and David Droegemeier dive deep into the Chargers’ hunt for their next offensive coordinator. The top story: the Los Angeles Chargers are interviewing leading candidate Mike McDaniel, and the hosts break down why he’s potentially the franchise-altering hire Justin Herbert and the offense desperately need. Should the Chargers “lock the door” and get the deal done with McDaniel, or are there other names in the mix? The hosts also react to the rumors of Philip Rivers as a possible OC, analyzing his coaching future and what he could realistically bring to the table. Plus, they discuss whether...

Daniel Wade and David Droegemeier break down the latest news and rumors, highlighting high-profile interviews with top candidates like Brian Daboll and Mike McDaniel. The hosts analyze each contender, including surprise names like Brian Callahan and Arthur Smith, discussing their coaching styles, play-calling experience, and how they might fit with Jim Harbaugh’s vision for the Chargers offense. The episode also covers lessons learned from the current NFL playoffs—what elite teams are doing right, the critical importance of strong offensive play-callers, and how quickly a team’s fortunes can turn around with the right hires and aggressive free agency...

The hosts discuss the Chargers' search for a new offensive coordinator, highlighting what the front office is seeking: a proven, experienced leader capable of being the “head coach of the offense” and building an effective system around Justin Herbert. They also talk about the organization’s approach to the hiring process, emphasizing their openness to innovative ideas rather than being locked into a specific scheme. The episode covers why Justin Herbert isn’t involved in the coordinator search, what that says about his role with the team, and reactions to that decision. The conversation shifts to the likely departure of defen...

Los Angeles Chargers fans demand answers after Greg Roman’s firing—who will replace him as offensive coordinator, and what does it mean for Justin Herbert’s future? Pete Fox, Kenyon Barner, and Jim Daniels debate the top 25 OC candidates, highlighting names from the Sean McVay and Kyle Shanahan coaching trees and dissecting the crucial chemistry needed between Herbert and his new play-caller. The hosts break down potential fits like Mike LaFleur, Clay Kubiak, and Marcus Brady, weigh the importance of high-powered offenses, and discuss the Chargers’ dire need to resurrect their run game. Insider perspectives cover the OC search p...

Looking for an in-depth breakdown of the Los Angeles Chargers' offensive coordinator search? Hosts Daniel Wade and David Droegemeier dive into the top candidates who could take over play-calling duties and shape Justin Herbert’s future. The conversation focuses on why Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel tops their list, examining his explosive offensive philosophies, play-calling experience, and how his innovative schemes might transform the Chargers' offense. They also evaluate other intriguing names like Brian Daboll, Todd Monken, Shane Day, Nate Scheelhaase, and Frank Smith—highlighting their strengths, NFL and college experience, and coaching relationships. You’ll get insights on wha...