The Los Angeles Chargers started off witnessing unsettling NFL history involving quarterback Justin Herbert. That opening play interception became a prelude to the Bolts' 30-23 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. Which also placed both Jim Harbaugh and Mike McDaniel on turbulent ground.

But more so for the latter, as calls grow for the Chargers to make a change in offensive philosophy.

Harbaugh got asked if McDaniel's job is in jeopardy postgame. But he made it crystal clear: McDaniel is the Bolts' play-caller.

“Like our players, we have skilled coaches. We're going to keep growing,” Harbaugh said, before saying “no” three times and declaring McDaniel's job safe.

After starting the season 0-4, Jim Harbaugh had this to say about offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel pic.twitter.com/lvz8Y33Hty

— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) October 5, 2026

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Many fans and analysts once praised the McDaniel offseason hire. He emerged as one of the league's newest bright minds from Kyle Shanahan's coaching staff with the San Francisco 49ers. McDaniel later built an offensive machine with the Miami Dolphins including turning quarterback Tua Tagovailoa into a Pro Bowl talent. Miami delivered two playoff appearances under McDaniel.

However, the Dolphins never invited him back following their 7-10 campaign of 2025. McDaniel ended up fielding offers for offensive coordinator and ultimately landed with the Bolts. Harbaugh made the gutsy decision to fire longtime coordinator Greg Roman, who even served under him during their early 2010s run with the 49ers that saw one NFC title and three conference championship appearances.

The Chargers' season is unraveling fast. They've dropped to 0-4 for the first time in the Harbaugh era and are sitting at the bottom of a more competitive AFC West.