The Chargers announced a slate of new coaches on Friday, including Butch Barry (offensive line), Julian Campenni (assistant defensive line), Rob Everett (offensive assistant), Adam Gase (passing game specialist), Chandler Henley (tight ends), Denzel Martin (assistant outside linebackers), Max McCaffrey (running backs), and Sean Spence (linebackers). McDaniel’s hiring was confirmed separately, along with defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary’s return after a year at Western Michigan.
Max McCaffrey, brother of 49ers star Christian McCaffrey, brings NFL coaching experience since 2016 and previously worked with McDaniel in Miami as an offensive assistant and running backs coach. Butch Barry joins from the Dolphins, where he coached the offensive line from 2023–2025, bringing a decade of NFL coaching experience across multiple teams. Adam Gase, a former Dolphins head coach and ex-offensive coordinator for the Broncos and Bears, is another high-profile addition on the Chargers staff.
The Chargers’ offseason has focused on strengthening both the coaching structure and roster without significant reported weaknesses, though internal improvements remain a priority. The team also projects to address the interior offensive line, linebacker depth, secondary play, and tight end production as it builds toward a potential deep postseason run.
With approximately $83.5 million in salary cap space, Los Angeles has financial flexibility to pursue strategic signings at various positions. Health will also be a critical factor, as several key players endured injuries last season, including Rashawn Slater, Joe Alt, Khalil Mack, and Derius Davis. If the Chargers stay healthy and leverage their expanded coaching staff, they could improve on last season’s performance.
Overall, the offseason moves position the Chargers to compete for a Super Bowl-capable roster in 2026, relying on McDaniel’s offense, a strengthened coaching pipeline, and targeted roster improvements to close gaps across multiple units.
