Mike McDaniel plans to trim Justin Herbert’s workload to boost efficiency. For bettors, expect fewer passing attempts and lower total-yard props but improved touchdown rate and reduced turnovers — consider under on Herbert’s passing yards and over on completion percentage or reduced interception props.
Mike McDaniel Intends to Reduce Justin Herbert’s Workload in 2026
Mike McDaniel, the new offensive coordinator joining Jim Harbaugh’s staff, unveiled a workload-management approach for Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert. McDaniel said he wants to “take a little off his plate” to preserve Herbert’s playmaking for critical moments and to avoid relying on him to produce extraordinary plays on a weekly basis.
McDaniel’s Blueprint: Efficiency Over Heroics
McDaniel emphasized schematic adjustments designed to produce easier, high-percentage completions that multiple quarterbacks on a roster could execute. “There’s a lot of incredible plays that Justin has made,” McDaniel said, adding that schematic tweaks can limit the need for Herbert to make spectacular plays every drive. The aim is to balance creativity with consistency and reduce the cumulative physical and mental toll on the quarterback.
Herbert’s 2025 Snapshot and Playoff Struggles
Herbert started 16 games in 2025, throwing for 3,727 yards, 26 touchdowns and 13 interceptions, while adding 498 rushing yards and two rushing scores. His worst outing came in the playoff opener against New England, when he threw for 159 yards, lost a fumble and took six sacks in a 16-3 loss — a performance McDaniel cited as the type of game he hopes to avoid by lightening Herbert’s load.
How This Shapes the Chargers’ Offense
Expect play-calling that mixes lower-risk passing concepts, quicker drops and more designed complement plays to take pressure off Herbert. McDaniel’s plan should lead to a more balanced attack that leans on schematic efficiency rather than asking Herbert to carry the offense on individual brilliance every week. Working under Harbaugh also gives McDaniel a collaborative environment to evolve the offense.
Immediate Steps: Tape Work and Game Planning
One of McDaniel’s first tasks will be a deep dive into Herbert’s game film to identify where the offense can simplify reads and create “low-cost, high-reward” opportunities. He has already spoken with Herbert and described both as excited about the possibilities, signaling an early buy-in from the franchise quarterback.
Betting Implications and Market Adjustments
McDaniel’s plan has clear betting ramifications. If Herbert’s attempts and aggressive downfield plays are dialed back, props tied to passing yards and total attempts could dip, while completion percentage and touchdown efficiency might improve.
Punters should monitor offseason reports and early-season play-calling for signs of reduced volume; potential plays include under on Herbert’s passing yards prop, over on completion percentage, or lower interception props. Game totals and Chargers moneyline value could also shift if the offense becomes steadier but less explosive.
Bottom Line
The coaching change signals a strategic pivot to protect Justin Herbert’s strengths while limiting high-variance scenarios.
For the Chargers, it’s an attempt to maximize scoring opportunities without overburdening their franchise quarterback.
For bettors, the key is to follow early-season tendencies: lower volume, higher efficiency could mean new angles for Herbert props and Chargers game markets.
What time is the Los Angeles Chargers Week 1 game against the Kansas City Chiefs?
When it comes to Justin Herbert in 2026, Mike McDaniel said portion control will be key.
New York Post
