Chargers News: The Playoff Underdogs Everyone Should Watch

The Los Angeles Chargers are being recognized as a potential surprise playoff contender ahead of the upcoming NFL season.

After a disappointing 5-12 finish last year and the loss of key player Keenan Allen, expectations for the team were low. However, analysts are starting to see a glimmer of hope and ESPN's Bill Barnwell is one of them.

Despite being one of the youngest teams in the league, the Chargers have made some noteworthy additions.

"The Chargers certainly don't seem like a playoff team right now," Barnwell said. "Look a little closer, though, and things aren't as bleak. ... They have made additions, but they just aren't as sexy: Rookie right tackle Joe Alt has looked like a home run in preseason, giving them the ability to protect franchise quarterback Justin Herbert with what might be one of the best one-two tackle punches in the league."

Rookie right tackle Joe Alt has shown promise during the preseason, providing much-needed protection for quarterback Justin Herbert. This could help solidify one of the strongest tackle combinations in the NFL.

The most significant change for the Chargers is the hiring of new head coach Jim Harbaugh according to Barnwell.

"In San Francisco from 2011 to 2014, he took over a team that hadn't posted a winning record in eight seasons and whose quarterback, Alex Smith, had said he couldn't envision rejoining the team after hitting free agency," Barnwell said.

"Harbaugh brought back Smith, turned his career around and took the 49ers to 13-3 and the NFC Championship Game in his first season. After that, he took over a five-win Michigan team in 2015 and immediately doubled its win total in his return to Ann Arbor."

His track record of turning struggling teams into contenders has Barnwell and others believing he can do the same in Los Angeles. His previous success with the San Francisco 49ers and Michigan suggests he has the ability to revitalize the Chargers just as easily.

While the Chargers may not be poised for a deep playoff run this season, there is optimism that they can improve significantly.

With standout players like Herbert, Alt, Joey Bosa, Rashawn Slater, and Khalil Mack, the foundation is there for a turnaround. If the team can capitalize on these changes, they could emerge as one of the more surprising playoff teams in 2024.