The Chargers are predicted to miss the playoffs in 2026.
Bleacher Report's Moe Moton made a stunning prediction, saying Los Angeles will miss the playoffs for the first time in the Jim Harbaugh era.
"While there's tremendous buzz around the Chargers' offense, many have overlooked what the team lost on the defensive side of the ball, particularly on the sideline," Moton wrote.
Moton also believes the Chargers’ Week 3-through-Week 10 stretch could ultimately keep them out of the postseason.
"Furthermore, the Chargers face a brutal stretch from Weeks 3 through 10: road games against the Buffalo Bills, Seattle Seahawks, Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Rams and Baltimore Ravens, plus home matchups with the Denver Broncos and Houston Texans. They have
a Week 7 bye during that span."
The Chargers will look to finally get over the hump in 2026. It's been tough sledding for them in the last seven seasons, going without a playoff win despite making the postseason three times in that stretch.
Los Angeles has a great chance not only to make the playoffs again but also to finally win, having gone without one since 2018. While there are obstacles ahead, the Bolts are no pushover.
The addition of Mike McDaniel as the primary offensive play-caller is a huge upgrade over what the Chargers have had. McDaniel is expected not only to elevate the offense and its weapons, but also Justin Herbert, who is projected to have his best season yet.
McDaniel's final two seasons in Miami were not pretty. However, the Chargers are hoping to replicate what he accomplished in his first two seasons, 2022 and 2023, when the team had one of the league's best offenses.
As for the defense, there are legitimate question marks about whether they can be a top-10 unit, as they were under Jesse Minter, with first-time coordinator Chris O'Leary now calling the shots. The linebackers, cornerbacks, and defensive line, specifically the interior, aren't in a great position as the season approaches.
Those units are considered to be average to below average compared to other teams.
While the Chargers have some concerns heading into the season, there is plenty to be excited about given the team's potential.
According to BetMGM, the Chargers' playoff odds sit at -185.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Chargers handed stunning prediction ahead of 2026 season
