Captains’ Code: Breaking Down 2025 NFL Team DNA — Los Angeles Chargers
Edition #279
Everyone’s doing season previews — but we’re doing something different. The
Captains’ Code is all about what really makes or breaks an NFL team. It’s not just about rosters or vibes. It’s about the identity, the pressure points, the bold calls, and the one thing that could send everything crashing down… or finally take them over the top. No filler. Just straight-up football breakdowns that tell you what actually matters heading into 2025.
The X-Factor That Will Make or Break This Season
The Chargers made a clear statement this offseason: they want to run the ball. Two new backs are in the mix, and the offensive line has been reshuffled to create lanes. That makes Mekhi Becton a critical piece. He ranked 24th among guards in run block win rate last season, and if he can hold steady or improve, it gives Jim Harbaugh’s run-heavy philosophy a much better chance of taking off.
Last Year’s Numbers:
In the 2024 NFL regular season, the Los Angeles Chargers offense ranked 11th in points scored per game with 23.6. They were 19th in passing yards per game, averaging 213.3, and 17th in rushing yards per game with 110.7. Overall, the Chargers ranked 20th in total offense, averaging 324.2 yards per game. Defensively, Los Angeles was a top-ranked unit, allowing the fewest points per game at 17.7 and ranking 11th in total yards allowed per game. They were particularly strong against the pass, allowing 221.29 opponent passing yards per game, and also had a solid run defense, allowing 117.47 rushing yards per game. The Chargers' defense registered 46 sacks (tied for 6th) and recorded 15 interceptions (tied for 8th). Their turnover differential was an impressive +12, ranking them tied for 3rd overall in the league. The Chargers defense also boasted the league's top red-zone defense, allowing opponents to score touchdowns just 45.0 percent of the time inside the 20-yard line.
Key Player(s) to Watch: The Heroes and the Wild Cards
Omarion Hampton.
The rookie back is already drawing high praise from teammates and coaches, and he has a real chance to seize the starting role immediately. If he delivers on expectations, he could be the centerpiece of a ground game that transforms this offense.
Coaching: What’s Different This Year?
The Los Angeles Chargers head into the 2025 season with Jim Harbaugh returning for his second year as Head Coach and most of his staff intact after an 11-6 playoff campaign in 2024. The lone major change comes at safeties coach, with Adam Fuller replacing Chris O’Leary, who departed for the college ranks. Offensive Coordinator Greg Roman and Defensive Coordinator Jesse Minter both return, with Minter’s unit having finished 4th in Defense+ last year. Additionally, Dylan Roney was promoted to defensive ends coach.
The Bold Prediction
The Chargers miss the playoffs.
The Realistic Win Total & Why
5-12.
This is one of the biggest predictions of the entire series, and easily the boldest in the AFC. Despite the roster talent, there are too many questions about depth, offensive balance, and whether this team can keep pace in a stacked conference.
The Biggest Question Mark Heading Into 2025
Who steps up as WR2? The Chargers need a consistent threat behind their WR1 to avoid being one-dimensional, and right now, that answer isn’t clear.
My Takeaway
This Chargers season feels like a step back rather than a leap forward. The foundation is there, but without clear answers at wide receiver and faith in the offensive structure, it’s hard to see them making another playoff push.