The Los Angeles Chargers kicked off the media-open portion of their voluntary offseason program on May 27, 2026, giving fans and reporters their first real look at the 2026 squad under head coach Jim Harbaugh. With Phase Three of OTAs now underway at the team's training facility, the energy was high, the tempo was crisp, and the star of the show--as expected--was the right arm of franchise quarterback Justin Herbert.
According to the official team report from chargers.com, Herbert was locked in from the first snap, delivering a series of throws that reminded everyone why he remains one of the most talented passers in the NFL. The practice wasn't just about established stars, though. A wave of rookies from the Chargers' 2026 draft class turned in notable performances, signaling that the infusion of young talent is already making an impact in Harbaugh's second season at the helm.
Herbert's Arm is in Midseason Form
There has been no shortage of discussion about Herbert's health and readiness heading into this offseason after the Chargers made a concerted effort to revamp the offensive line and add weapons around him. If the first media-open practice is any indication, Herbert has put any concerns to rest.
The fifth-year quarterback showed off the elite arm strength that has made him a top-tier signal-caller since entering the league, driving the ball to all levels of the field with authority and accuracy. His connection with the wide receiver corps was a recurring highlight, particularly when he targeted the newly acquired pass-catchers in the offense.
Herbert's ability to layer throws over the middle and fit the ball into tight windows was on full display. The offense, now under the direction of offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, operated with a rhythm that suggests the installation of the scheme is progressing well. McDaniel's system--known for its creative pre-snap motion, zone-running concepts, and play-action opportunities--appears to be a natural fit for Herbert's skill set.
One of the most encouraging signs from the session was Herbert's chemistry with rookie wide receiver Tre Harris. The rookie, listed as a newcomer to the roster this season, made several competitive catches during team drills, showing the ability to separate and secure the ball in traffic. Harris is part of a deep and revamped receiving room that includes veteran presence Ladd McConkey, returning speedster Derius Davis, and the physically gifted Quentin Johnston. If Harris can carve out a role early, Herbert will have yet another reliable target in an already stacked group.
Rookie Class Makes an Early Statement
General manager Joe Hortiz and the Chargers' front office emphasized restocking the roster through the 2026 draft, and early returns from OTAs suggest that strategy is paying dividends. While it's important not to overstate the significance of a single spring practice, the rookies made plays that turned heads.
Harris wasn't the only first-year player to stand out. On the defensive side, the Chargers' draft picks brought energy and production to a unit looking to build on last season's progress. The defensive backs were active and aggressive, recording multiple pass breakups during 11-on-11 periods. Newcomer cornerbacks Rodney Shelley and Avery Smith--both drafted this year--showed sticky coverage and good instincts in the secondary.
The linebacker room also got a boost from draft addition Lander Barton, who joins a corps featuring proven veterans like Khalil Mack, Denzel Perryman, and Bud Dupree. Barton's speed and football IQ were apparent as he navigated through traffic and showed range in coverage drills. Defensive coordinator Chris O'Leary has the kind of versatile pieces that allow for creative blitz packages and multiple looks--a unit that could be disruptive if the rookies continue to develop.
Edge rusher Kyle Kennard, another rookie added via the draft, flashed the get-off and bend that made him a coveted prospect. Working alongside Mack and Tuli Tuipulotu, Kennard has a golden opportunity to learn from two of the league's best while carving out a rotational role. The pass-rush rotation will be critical for a Chargers defense that wants to generate pressure without relying solely on blitzes.
On the offensive line, the team added depth and competition through the draft. The Chargers' starting tackles--Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt--are among the best in the league, but interior depth was a priority. Rookies like Isaiah World and Jacob Spomer received valuable reps during the session, working under the guidance of the offensive line coach who has a track record of developing young talent.
Secondary Sets the Tone Early
One of the biggest storylines of the spring has been the overhaul of the Chargers' defensive backfield. With Derwin James Jr. anchoring the safety spot and veterans like Donte Jackson and Elijah Molden patrolling the perimeter, the Chargers have a mix of experience and youth that could make them formidable in coverage.
During Wednesday's practice, the secondary was noticeably active. Multiple defensive backs got their hands on passes, breaking up throws that might have been completions. The competition in the defensive backfield is fierce, with players like Cam Hart, Tarheeb Still, and Nikko Reed all vying for snaps. The depth chart is far from settled, and that competition is exactly what the coaching staff wants to see.
The presence of Tony Jefferson--a veteran safety who knows the system--adds stability to the backend. Jefferson's leadership and football acumen are invaluable, especially as younger players like Kendall Williamson and Devin Grant develop.
Phase Three Progress and What It Means
Phase Three of the voluntary offseason program is where teams begin to transition from individual drills into full-team work. It's the closest thing to actual football during the spring, with 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 drills that simulate game-like situations. While contact is limited and there are no pads, this phase is critical for install, timing, and building chemistry.
For a team like the Chargers, which is still integrating new offensive and defensive concepts under McDaniel and O'Leary, every rep matters. Early returns are positive. Herbert appeared fully in command of the offense, the skill players looked sharp, and the defense--particularly the secondary--showed the kind of ball-hawking mentality that O'Leary wants to instill.
It's worth noting that this was a voluntary practice, and not every player was on the field. Several veterans were present, but some--like running back Omarion Hampton and tight end Oronde Gadsden--are likely being managed for workload purposes. Depth pieces like running backs Kimani Vidal and Jaret Patterson saw extended reps, and both looked explosive in space.
Looking Ahead: What's Next for the Chargers
The Chargers will continue their OTA schedule over the next few weeks before mandatory minicamp arrives in June. By that point, the roster will be more defined, and the coaching staff will have a clearer picture of who fits where.
The team is in a fascinating spot. After a strong first season under Harbaugh, expectations have risen. Herbert is in his prime. The defense has playmakers at every level. The offensive line is among the best in the conference. And the rookies from the 2026 class are already showing they can contribute.
If the first media-open practice is any indication, Chargers fans have a lot to be excited about. Herbert's arm is live. The rookies are hungry. And the culture Harbaugh is building in Los Angeles is beginning to take shape.
About the Author: Trail Green covers the Los Angeles Chargers, providing in-depth analysis and breaking news throughout the season. Follow for continued coverage of OTAs, roster moves, and everything Chargers football.