The Chargers’ early preparation for the 2026 season began with the first week of OTAs this past week.
Here are six key things we learned from Week 1 of the sessions:
Justin Herbert looking like himself
Herbert returned from a European trip supporting his girlfriend, Madison Beer, and immediately shone. He threw a standout dart to Quentin Johnston between defenders and went 5-of-5 in 7-on-7s to multiple receivers. He appears comfortable picking up Mike McDaniel’s scheme quickly.
Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt progressing well
Slater and Alt, who are both returning from their respective season-ending lower-body injuries, are both “really ahead of schedule,” per head coach Jim Harbaugh. They participated in practice, looked solid, and moved really well. Harbaugh expects them to be fully ready for training camp.
Offensive linemen learning new system
New offensive line coach Butch Barry had the linemen doing heavy movement and conditioning drills to begin acclimating them to McDaniel’s outside zone runs. This comes after years of former offensive coordinator Greg Roman’s gap scheme, which required more downhill and power blockers.
Offensive line depth testing
With 11 new additions to the offensive line group, the coaching staff is aggressively shuffling combinations to test the roster’s depth. During initial reps, newcomers center Tyler Biadasz and right guard Cole Strange were with the 1s. Kayode Awosika saw time with the first-team offense at left guard. Meanwhile, second-round pick Jake Slaughter handled second-team reps at left guard.
Defensive realignment
With new defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary at the helm, the Chargers’ defense spent the first week adapting to a modified defensive system. There was an emphasis on heavy rotation and positional continuity from last season. Players and coaches highlighted the “energy” that O’Leary brings.
Daiyan Henley among defensive standouts
Henley picked off quarterback Trey Lance in 7-on-7s and helped set a tone. Other defenders like linebacker Denzel Perryman, edge rusher Khalil Mack, and undrafted rookie Nadame Tucker, who played under O’Leary at Western Michigan in 2025, also flashed.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: 6 key things we learned from the first week of Chargers OTAs
Reporting by Gavino Borquez, Chargers Wire / Chargers Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
