Chargers Banking on Familiar Faces and New Talent in Year Two of the Harbaugh Era
In Jim Harbaugh’s first year at the helm, the Los Angeles Chargers looked like a revitalized squad, finishing the regular season by reclaiming their identity as a tough, physical football team. Despite the progress, they were sent packing early in the AFC playoffs—a harsh reminder that potential alone doesn’t guarantee postseason success. Heading into the 2025 season, expectations are high once again, and the Chargers have made several roster moves to push themselves deeper into the playoff conversation. Yet, when Pro Football Focus released its X-factors for each team, the choice for the Chargers raised a few eyebrows.
According to PFF, the Chargers' most important swing player in 2025 isn’t a shiny new addition or an up-and-coming rookie. It’s veteran wide receiver Mike Williams, returning to the Bolts after a turbulent year split between the Jets and Steelers, where he posted a career-low 59.6 PFF receiving grade. "Williams is back with the Chargers after an uninspiring season with the Jets and Steelers, during which he earned a 59.6 PFF receiving grade. That was the first time he garnered a sub-70.0 PFF receiving grade since his rookie year in 2017. Now that he’s back in Los Angeles, he’ll look to revive his career and be a reliable number two option behind Ladd McConkey." While Williams is a known commodity and fan favorite, his designation as the X-factor is questionable given the influx of young offensive talent.
The Chargers’ ground game is undergoing a full-blown overhaul. They drafted Omarion Hampton, the former UNC standout and 2024 Doak Walker finalist, and paired him with free agent signing Najee Harris, who is eager to bounce back after an inconsistent stint in Pittsburgh. The duo is expected to stabilize a running game that’s been inconsistent in recent years. Both players are versatile backs capable of handling a full workload and contributing in the passing game. Their impact could be the difference in playoff survival this time around, yet neither was mentioned by PFF as a potential X-factor.
There’s no doubt that a healthy Mike Williams would be a boost for Justin Herbert and the passing game. Before his ACL tear in 2023, he looked like a man on a mission, racking up 121 yards on seven catches in just over a half against Minnesota. That version of Williams is still in there, and if he can return to his pre-injury form, he could become a trusted security blanket once again. Plus, let’s not forget chemistry. Williams and Herbert have a well-documented connection, particularly on contested catches and back-shoulder throws—tools that could be invaluable in the red zone and on third downs.
However, it’s fair to argue that there are other X-factors on this roster worth spotlighting. Rookie Tre Harris, taken in the second round, is already turning heads and could emerge as a dynamic WR2. Quentin Johnston, entering a critical third season, has also shown major growth this offseason and is being pushed to deliver on his first-round promise. When you factor in the revamped running game and Harbaugh’s smashmouth philosophy, Williams may not be the focal point of this offense, but rather a piece of a larger puzzle.
