The Los Angeles Chargers are preparing for their 2026 NFL season opener against the Arizona Cardinals at SoFi Stadium. With the AFC expected to be competitive, the Chargers aim to make a significant impact this year.
The team's roster remains largely unchanged from last season, although veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen has departed, creating a need for new leadership. The Chargers have designated 10 players as captains for the season, including quarterback Justin Herbert, who has yet to secure a playoff victory in his career.
The list of captains also features offensive linemen Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt, wide receiver Ladd McConkey, linebacker Daiyan Henley, outside linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu, safeties Derwin James Jr. and Elijah Molden, outside linebacker Khalil Mack, and long snapper Josh Harris.
Herbert is expected to thrive under new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel's faster offensive scheme, aiming to improve upon last season's statistics, where he threw for 3,727 yards and 26 touchdowns, but also had a career-high interception rate.
Slater and Alt, both returning from season-ending injuries, are anticipated to play crucial roles on the offensive line, especially given concerns at left guard and center. McConkey is expected to step up in the absence of Allen, who contributed significantly to the team's offense last season.
