Los Angeles Chargers
2020 Record: 7-9
AFC West Ranking: 3rd
Like the Chiefs with Mahomes, the Chargers appear to have found their young franchise quarterback in Justin Herbert, and after parting ways with former head coach Anthony Lynn and hiring Brandon Stanley, the Chargers appear to be heading in the right direction.
However, the Chargers were a middle of the pack offense in scoring and were 23rd in points allowed. Don’t let this fool you, though. The Chargers have a stout defense, although they saw their defensive coordinator in Gus Bradley, head down to Sin City to take over the defensive play-calling for the Las Vegas Raiders.
The Chargers have offensive talent but must work on rebuilding their offensive line in order for Herbert to sustain success. Perhaps the most notable position group for the Chargers was their pass rush, and even that group saw a regression in 2020. However, J.J. Watt could be a potential option for the Chargers, instantly bolstering and improving that grouping.
Overall, the jury is still out on the Chargers. We have yet to see how a head coaching change will benefit the team and to see if Herbert hits a sophomore slump.
Overall, especially considering their luck with injuries during the regular season, it is unlikely that the Chargers will have an opportunity to make a Super Bowl appearance within the next four seasons.