Chargers QB Justin Herbert revises footwork under new OC

As the Los Angeles Chargers progress through their offseason program, quarterback Justin Herbert is undergoing a fundamental change to his game, focusing intently on his footwork under the direction of new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel. The central adjustment involves Herbert, a right-handed passer, now lining up in the shotgun formation with his left foot forward, a reversal from the stance he used throughout his first six NFL seasons.

McDaniel, who was hired after being fired as the Miami Dolphins' head coach in January, is implementing a quicker passing game designed to get the ball to playmakers in space faster. He believes the footwork change will help Herbert get the ball out more quickly, improving timing and allowing receivers to accumulate more yards after the catch. The coordinator emphasized he is not trying to fix a broken player but to find marginal gains that can elevate an already elite talent.

To ingrain the new mechanics, McDaniel took the unconventional step of limiting Herbert's throwing during organized team activities this spring. Instead, the quarterback spent significant time performing dropback and footwork drills while holding a large green...