EL SEGUNDO — Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert adopted a new shotgun stance during the 2026 offseason, placing his left foot forward instead of his right. This adjustment was made at the suggestion of offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel as part of a broader offensive system change.

McDaniel encouraged Herbert to reverse his shotgun foot alignment. He said he presented Herbert with a plan to show him where the change could be advantageous. The offensive coordinator also developed a presentation for Herbert that included video clips from Herbert's career and examples from offenses McDaniel had previously coached. McDaniel stated that the effort was not to fix something broken, but to elevate a talented player and improve offensive efficiency by getting the ball to teammates faster.

Chargers Head Coach Jim Harbaugh confirmed that the team's offensive system belongs to McDaniel. Harbaugh noted that the patterning required some footwork changes, and Herbert had picked them up. Herbert did not participate in 11-on-11 drills during organized team activities unless he was handing off the ball. The Chargers limited Herbert's throwing workload during organized team activities and minicamp, which took place in El Segundo, California, in May and June 2026.

Herbert performed footwork drills using a water-filled medicine ball. He missed portions of the voluntary offseason program with organizational approval. Harbaugh stated that Herbert would throw during all three days of mandatory minicamp. The coach also indicated a plan was in place for Herbert's progression leading up to training camp and the season. McDaniel explained that not allowing Herbert to throw during early footwork adjustments helped him focus. Herbert stated that McDaniel explained his vision for the quarterback position, and Herbert got on board with the changes. The Chargers fired offensive coordinator Greg Roman after the 2025 season. Herbert was sacked 54 times, pressured 263 times, and hit 106 times during the 2025 season. He threw for 3,727 yards and 26 touchdowns, and the team averaged 21.6 points per game.