LOS ANGELES — A panel of 10 ESPN fantasy football experts listed Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert as a sleeper for the 2026 season. Herbert received four mentions, the highest number among quarterbacks included in the panel's predictions.

ESPN defines a "sleeper" as "[a] player who is being overlooked and will outperform his average draft position (ADP) in 2026." Other quarterbacks who received sleeper mentions from the panel on July 5, 2026, included Jaxson Dart and Tyler Shough, both with two mentions. Brock Purdy and C.J. Stroud each garnered one mention.

Various changes within the Chargers organization have preceded the 2026 season. Mike McDaniel has joined the team as the new offensive coordinator. McDaniel has focused on technical adjustments with Herbert, specifically addressing his footwork and release speed. On July 2, 2026, McDaniel altered Herbert's shotgun stance, positioning his non-dominant left foot slightly ahead of his right foot.

McDaniel stated that this adjustment is designed to provide a "millisecond competitive advantage" for footwork, particularly on short passes and run-pass option plays. Herbert commented on the adjustment, saying, "I don't think it's too much of a difference." During his time at the University of Oregon, Herbert utilized a balanced stance.

Mike McDaniel previously coached Tua Tagovailoa for four seasons with the Miami Dolphins. The Chargers also saw player movement. The team's offensive tackles, Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater, missed most of the 2025 season due to injuries. Tyler Biadasz is the new center for the Chargers. Jim Harbaugh is the team's head coach. Additions to the roster include players such as Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, Tre Harris, Oronde Gadsden II, and Omarion Hampton.