Struggles of the Los Angeles Chargers in the 2026 NFL Season

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As the 2026 NFL season progresses into Week 3, teams are beginning to reveal their potential. Some are emerging as strong playoff contenders, while others appear to require significant adjustments to improve. Among the latter group are the Los Angeles Chargers, according to future Pro Football Hall of Famer Rob Gronkowski.

Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh reacts during a game against the Arizona Cardinals.

Speaking to OutKick during an event in New York City, Gronkowski expressed his disappointment with the Chargers, stating, “The Los Angeles Chargers are probably the biggest mess in the NFL in terms of how they’re playing and where they should be.” Gronkowski noted that while he initially thought the Miami Dolphins’ early struggles were anticipated due to their roster issues, the Chargers’ 0-2 start was unexpected.

The Chargers, led by head coach Jim Harbaugh and new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, have faced early season losses that few predicted. Despite high expectations, including the potential for a Super Bowl run, the Chargers have scored an average of just 14 points per game, placing them near the bottom of the league’s offensive rankings.

“They gotta just grab a Bounty paper towel and wipe off all their linemen, because they’re not clean. They’re dirty and they’re falling all over the place,” said Gronkowski. “Get the blocks down schematically and keep Justin Herbert clean in the pocket so he can perform.”

Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel and quarterback Justin Herbert during a game warm-up.

The offensive struggles extend beyond Justin Herbert, who has faced challenges finding consistency. He has completed only 59.3% of his passes, with two touchdowns and three interceptions in two games. The offensive line’s issues are a recurring theme, contributing significantly to these difficulties.

Gronkowski emphasized that the blame does not rest solely on Herbert or any single player. “It’s a lot of things going wrong,” he said, noting problems with the quarterback, the offensive coordinator, the offensive line, and the wide receivers. “It’s football. It’s such a team game that one player can’t make you collapse the way they’re collapsing. It’s everyone as a whole.”

The Chargers must address multiple areas to improve their performance. With a challenging upcoming schedule, including games against teams like the Buffalo Bills, Seattle Seahawks, and Kansas City Chiefs, the Chargers face a tough road ahead.

Scott Thompson reports these developments for Fox News Digital.