3 Ways The Chargers 2023 Season Could Change The Franchise's Long-Term Vision

2023 will be a big year for the Chargers all throughout

The 2023 Los Angeles Chargers. We have yet to hit training camp, but what will this season look like for the Bolts? It's unknown at the moment, but we know there are a ton of heavy and high aspirations for this team throughout the roster. The core positions are set for the team, for the most part; now, it just needs to come together for the Bolts. "

However, to play devil's advocate, what if this season doesn't play out to how many predict it'll play out? The AFC has a ton of juggernauts and teams looking to break that ceiling, including the Chargers. At the end of the day, only one team can win it all, but with so much hanging on the Bolts, we could see some changes after the 2023 season if things don't go their way. Here are three ways the Chargers' 2023 season could change for the team's long-term vision. 

1. HC Position

Once the 2022 season ended in the worst way possible for the Chargers, I thought we would wake up to a notification stating that the Chargers have fired head coach Brandon Staley; we never got that. Weeks after nothing happened on that front, all signs pointed to Staley returning for the 2023 season. However, a lot will ride on Staley and his ability to lead a team; through two seasons as the lead man for the Bolts, he's 19-15, which is unacceptable for the type of talent LA has at their disposal. He's running out of chances, and if they fail to meet or exceed expectations, the Chargers could cut ties with Staley after three seasons at the helm. This season is do-or-die; we'll see how they respond months from now. 

2. Austin Ekeler Departure? 

Chargers star running back Austin Ekeler is entering the final year of a four-year deal he signed with LA in 2020. He's outplayed his contract in his last two seasons; he wanted more money, which the Chargers didn't want to give him, he then requested a trade, but no trade went through, and he will now finish his contract with the Bolts. However, what will happen next? If he has another outstanding season, he will most likely walk for more money, assuming that LA doesn't offer him the money he wants/deserves. The Ekeler drama could be looming all season long; let's just hope it doesn't get in the way of the task at hand. 

3. Herbert's Respect

Justin Herbert is one of the most talented QBs in the league but has yet to grab a playoff win. His counterparts, on the other hand, have experienced their fair share of success in the league. We've seen Justin make some jaw-dropping plays in the regular season, but it's now time to show it in the postseason and get some success in January. The time is now for Herbert, he has weapons all throughout the offense and his new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore; what more can you ask for? This could be a make-it-or-break-it year for the four-year pro; he has all the tools to get the job done, and I believe he could make it happen. The time is now.