Los Angeles Chargers news: What was the Chargers’ identity supposed to be this season?

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - OCTOBER 04: Offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel of the Los Angeles Chargers looks on prior to the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on October 04, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Olivia Vanni/Getty Images) | Getty Images In a recent article from Pamela Mal

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What is the story about?

In a recent article from Pamela Maldonado at ESPN, the analyst discussed if both the Chargers and Texans are as bad as they look after each preseason contender has started the season 0-4. Specifically for the Bolts, Maldonado does not think they are. However, she claims lost their “foundation” before they ever found their identity.

I thought this was interesting to hear. It makes sense. The Chargers did not hit their stride with the explosive and dynamic offense under Mike McDaniel. Without that identity,

normally a team would be able to fall back on their foundation which usually houses their mentality and default style of play despite what plays are called.

The Chargers were supposed to be a hard-nosed team under Harbaugh. They got their tackles back and have a first-round pick at running back who can run through a brick wall. If the offense wasn’t going to be as fancy-shmancy as every thought out of the gate, then at least they could have leaned on the blue-collar, “tip of the spear” mentality that Harbaugh instilled in them by now…right?

But as we’ve seen in the last month, the Chargers do not have an identity. No one really knows what this team looks like on the inside aside from those in the building.

This morning, I wanted to ask you all what your thoughts were on the Chargers’ perceived identity this season. What was it supposed to be? Were we wrong to think it was going to be high-flying? Was it always going to be this Candyland-style of play? Were there signs that we missed?

The laundry list of questions remain.

And now for today’s links.