The Los Angeles Chargers have bolstered their offensive coaching lineup by hiring Adam Gase as an assistant coach focused specifically on improving the passing game. The move comes shortly after the team replaced offensive coordinator Greg Roman with Mike McDaniel, signaling a determined effort to elevate Justin Herbert’s offense as the 2024 NFL season approaches.
Adam Gase, best known for his previous roles as head coach of the Miami Dolphins and New York Jets, joins the Chargers following a five-year break from the NFL. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport confirmed that Gase’s responsibilities will center on enhancing the Chargers’ aerial attack.
Justin Herbert’s Playoff Struggles Drive Coaching Changes
Despite being one of the league’s more talented quarterbacks, Justin Herbert’s postseason record remains disappointing. Now entering his sixth year, Herbert has yet to win a playoff game, having lost all three appearances. His playoff performance has included a completion rate of just 54.7%, with two touchdowns countered by four interceptions, underscoring the need for refinement in high-stakes situations.
With Mike McDaniel, known for his creative offensive schemes, and Adam Gase joining the staff, the Chargers are hoping to unlock new dimensions in Herbert’s play. Gase brings experience working with elite quarterbacks such as Peyton Manning, Jay Cutler, and recent Super Bowl winner Sam Darnold, which could prove influential in advancing Herbert’s game.
Adam Gase’s Extensive Coaching Resume
Adam Gase built his reputation working under influential offensive minds including Steve Mariucci and Mike Martz. His rise gained momentum when he became the Denver Broncos’ quarterbacks coach in 2011, where Peyton Manning posted some of his best career statistics under his guidance. This success earned Gase the Broncos’ offensive coordinator position in 2013.
Following his tenure in Denver, Gase served as the Chicago Bears‘ offensive coordinator before landing the head coaching job with Miami in 2016. His first season with the Dolphins was promising, finishing 10-6 and reaching the playoffs, but subsequent losing seasons in 2017 and 2018 led to his dismissal.
Gase’s head coaching stint with the New York Jets from 2019 to 2020 was less successful, with the team posting a 7-9 record followed by a dismal 2-14 campaign that included a 0-13 start, culminating in another firing. Since then, he has been out of the NFL until the Chargers opportunity arose.
Potential Impact of Gase’s Role on Chargers’ Offense
While Gase’s previous head coaching attempts were uneven, his return as an assistant coach allows him to concentrate on a narrower part of the offense, potentially maximizing his strengths. The collaboration between Gase and McDaniel will be crucial, as their strategic alignment could determine how effectively they elevate Herbert’s passing prowess.
For Gase, this position represents an opportunity to rebuild his NFL credentials with less pressure than a head coaching role. Should McDaniel depart the Chargers for a head coaching job elsewhere, Gase might be positioned to step into the offensive coordinator role, which could be a pivotal career moment.
The success of these coaching changes will be closely watched, particularly by fans and analysts eager to see if Herbert can finally overcome his playoff hurdles and lead the Chargers to postseason victories.
“The former #Jets and #Dolphins coach rose in the ranks as a record-setting offensive mind. Now back to his roots in LA.” – Ian Rapoport, NFL Insider
He’s back: After a five-year hiatus, Adam Gase returns to coaching in the NFL, joining the #Chargers as an assistant focusing on the passing game, sources say.
The former #Jets and #Dolphins coach rose in the ranks as a record-setting offensive mind. Now back to his roots in LA. pic.twitter.com/swCKTPt1bm
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 9, 2026
