Chargers Block Division Rival From Interviewing Beloved Coach

The Los Angeles Chargers captured success in the first year of the Jim Harbaugh and Joe Hortiz era. After going 5-12 in 2023 under Brandon Staley, the Chargers went 11-6 and secured a playoff berth.

They were able to flip the culture around the organization and seek to make another jump in 2025. They shifted their attention over the offseason and look to keep continuity going forward. Following the season, Harbaugh acknowledged there would be no changes along the coaching staff.

And the latest report from Los Angeles shows how serious he is. According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Las Vegas Raiders requested to interview Sanjay Lal for a pass-game coordinator/receivers coach role but Los Angeles blocked it. They love what Lal brings to the table and refuse to let him head to a division rival.

Chargers News: Los Angeles Rejected Sanjay Lal Interview With Las Vegas Raiders

Lal joined the Chargers coaching staff in 2024 and played a big role in the development of Ladd McConkey and Quentin Johnston.

McConkey dominated as a rookie in 2024. The Georgia product led the team in targets (112), receptions (82), and receiving yards (1,149). In the Wild Card loss to the Texans, he exploded for nine catches for 197 yards and one score.

Meanwhile, Johnston had a bounce-back campaign in his sophomore year. He posted career-highs in catches (55), receiving yards (711), and touchdowns (8). Although he still has some troubles with drops, Johnston took a step forward.

Lal also had stops as the wide receivers coach with the Oakland Raiders, New York Jets, Indianapolis Colts, Seattle Seahawks, and Jacksonville Jaguars.

He has built the reputation of being a great receivers coach, and the Chargers shut down the possibility of landing with a division foe. And you can't blame them for that.

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