Chargers keep McDaniel as offensive-line changes put protection in focus

The Chargers are keeping Mike McDaniel as offensive coordinator, but their next lineup may look different after injuries forced three linemen out of Sunday’s loss to Seattle. Jim Harbaugh says McDaniel’s job is safe as winless Los Angeles prepares to host Denver.

For roster and fantasy managers, the week’s useful information will come from the offensive-line availability reports. Joe Alt left with a neck injury, Rashawn Slater with an ankle injury and Trevor Penning with a head injury, according to the Chargers’ official Monday preview. The team finished the Seattle game with a reshuffled group protecting Justin Herbert.

Travis Burke replaced Alt at right tackle. Logan Taylor first filled in for Penning at left guard, then moved to left tackle when Slater went out. Jake Slaughter shifted from center to left guard, and undrafted rookie Jacob Spomer entered at center. Cole Strange completed the line that was on the field for the final drive.

Those are the replacements Los Angeles used Sunday. The team’s Monday preview did not establish them as its Week 5 starting lineup. Practice participation and subsequent injury reports will clarify who can return against the Broncos.

Herbert’s offense also needs to reduce turnovers. The Chargers recorded four against Seattle, including two interceptions before halftime. The first came on their opening play when Drake Thomas intercepted Herbert, as shown in the NFL’s official game post.

NFL.com reported Herbert has six interceptions and has taken 12 sacks through four games. The Chargers produced 301 yards Sunday but could not finish a comeback from a 27-6 deficit late in the third quarter. Herbert lost a fumble on a sack during the final possession.

Harbaugh’s public position is that McDaniel will continue running the offense. The Associated Press reported his direct assurance about the coordinator’s job, and Herbert also supported McDaniel while acknowledging that he needed to make more plays.

Harbaugh’s backing puts the focus on executing McDaniel’s offense with the personnel available. The immediate variables are who protects Herbert and whether the offense can avoid another costly start. Denver is next, with Kansas City following before the Week 7 bye.