At this time last year, the Houston Texans were predicted to be one of the worst teams in the NFL. After a 3-13-1 season, that was an easy call to make, or so it seemed.
But behind a stellar rookie season from C.J. Stroud, they had one of the league's most dynamic offenses. They finished 10-7, winning the AFC South, and made it to the divisional round of the playoffs.
That has led to speculation about which team can do that this season. Vinnie Iyer of The Sporting News compiled a list and the first team he mentions is the Los Angeles Chargers. The Chargers don't have a rookie quarterback to get hyped about, but they don't need one, they still have Justin Herbert.
They also have a guy most figure to be a big difference-maker — head coach Jim Harbaugh.
There is a precedent for Harbaugh turning teams around as he has done so at every stop, whether at college or the professional level. He has taken a team to the Super Bowl and won a national championship. The Chargers have the right guy in charge.
"(Jim Harbaugh) unlocked the CHEAT CODE in me."
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) May 29, 2024
Former #49ers TE @delaniewalker82 on the impact Jim Harbaugh and Greg Roman had on his career 💪📈@heykayadams @chargers pic.twitter.com/RpKSq5ewVI
But more than that, they have one of the league's best quarterbacks, an offensive line that could be among the league's best, and playmakers all over the defense including Joey Bosa, Khalil Mack, and Derwin James to go along with a young nucleus.
The Chargers were 5-12 last year. But they were playing for a lame-duck head coach. They had injuries at key positions and finished the season with Easton Stick playing quarterback.
This is not the same Chargers team and it expects a quick turnaround with Harbaugh running the show. Iyer's connection between last season's Texans and the 2024 Chargers makes complete sense.
