Analyst has Chargers in surprising position in power rankings

The Los Angeles Chargers under Jim Harbaugh are becoming a consistent team, but not one that seriously challenges in the postseason.

Back-to-back 11-win seasons and a playoff appearance in his first two years, Harbaugh is building a foundation.

But fans don't want a foundation; they want success, and after a quiet free agency period, many are questioning how far this team can go in 2026.

However, in his latest power rankings, CBS Sports' Pete Prisco has the Chargers, surprisingly, at No. 10.

"Adding Mike McDaniel as offensive coordinator will liven up the run game if the star tackles come back healthy," Prisco wrote. "By adding fullback Alec Ingold, it's clear Jim Harbaugh is going back to his roots of being a physical running team."

More: Buccaneers' 2026 prospects revealed after Mike Evans' free agency decision

Are Chargers a top 10 team?

It is a great conversation starter.

And in Prisco's power rankings, L.A. is the fourth-best team in the AFC. That is quite something.

After a quiet free agency period where you can make the case the Chargers haven't improved on the roster it had last season, I get the sense the franchise is banking on internal development and the coaching change of Mike McDaniel to bring instant results.

And for me, that's a dangerous game to play.

But it appears it is one Harbaugh is intent on playing.

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