For a team in dire need of a comeback, there couldn’t be a better HC choice than Jim Harbaugh. The former Michigan coach led his alma mater to win their first national championship since 1997 and is expected to repeat history in his former home.

The former quarterback returns to the Los Angeles Chargers as the head coach, having played for them in 1999 and 2000. He has some big responsibilities on his shoulders this year to improve the franchise’s dismal 5-12 record from last season. Nowhere apprehensive in his approach, Harbaugh started the offseason with one clear priority: perfecting the offensive line.

Can Jim Harbaugh help Justin Herbert “thrive”?

Harbaugh has affirmed his dynamic approach right from the start, laying emphasis on strengthening the offensive line. The departure of come of the teams’ key players this offseason and the draft of OT Joe Alt with their No. 5 pick have some analysts doubting the HC’s process. Radio host Mike Evans put forward one such opinion on the Stinkin’ Truth Podcast, questioning if the former 49ers coach’s decisions would hamper QB Justin Fields.

However, a former Denver guard expressed his optimism about the HC’s strategy. In response to Evans’ claims, Mark Schlereth pointed out how the team wasn’t faring any better, even with all the now-former players on the roster. He said, “How have the Chargers been with all of those weapons?… They’ve been garbage.” The former Super Bowl Champion further affirmed faith in Harbaugh and feels that under his guidance, Herbert is going to reach new heights in the upcoming seasons.

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“He’s gonna introduce a new way of playing football to Justin Herbert. And you know what? Justin Herbert’s gonna thrive, and the Chargers will thrive.” Harbaugh has already expressed his excitement about working with the 2020 Draft and has called the quarterback “a crown jewel in the National Football League.” Whereas NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year has shown unquestionable talent, it was the lack of strong support in the offense that didn’t let his performance translate into wins for the Chargers. And Harbaugh is here to change exactly that!

The HC’s revamp of the O-Line

It has been a dynamic offseason for the Chargers ever since Harbaugh took control of the reins. Major changes started in March, and the offense was the prime focus. The HC shared as much at the 2024 NFL Annual League meeting, saying, “The offensive line to me is important,” as per the team’s website. While defending his choice of picking Joe Alt instead of a quarterback or WR in this year’s NFL Draft, Harbaugh called the OT an “offensive weapon” who would protect the QB and ultimately help Herbert to perform unhindered.

The Chargers signed center Bradley Bozeman, running backs Gus Edwards and J.K. Dobbins, and tight end Hayden Hurst this offseason. Easton Stick is also set to return as Herbert’s backup, with OL Rashawn Slater also continuing with his draft team. Whereas these decisions have been deemed as wise additions to the offense, it is the release of some key players that has raised some eyebrows.

The most polarizing move came with the release of their franchise WR, Keenan Allen, who had spent 11 years with his draft team. While Allen had made his intention of retiring with the Chargers clear, he was traded to the Bears for a fourth-round pick and saved $23.1 million in salary cap space. The Chargers had a long-time trio of Allen, WR Mike Williams, TE Gerald Everett, and RB Austin Ekeler. This offseason, all of them were shipped off to their new homes. The salary cap was utilized to acquire new players who, though talented, were still inexperienced in the league.

Jim Harbaugh has been making some bold moves in his first year in Los Angeles. Whether the former Michigan kingmaker could work his magic with this batch of young players or not, we will only know once the 2024 season begins.