Chargers Refuse to Trade Herbert, Mack Despite 0-8 Start

INGLEWOOD, Calif. — The Los Angeles Chargers front office has declined trade offers for quarterback Justin Herbert, outside linebacker Khalil Mack and receiver Ladd McConkey even after the team fell to 0-8 on Sunday, losing to the Houston Texans 44-22, according to the New York Post.

Why Won't the Chargers Trade Justin Herbert?

Management has treated the 2026 season as a write-off rather than a roster to be dismantled, the Post reported, and has turned away teams interested in acquiring Herbert, Mack and McConkey. That stance leaves the trade deadline — Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 4 p.m. ET — as the next test of whether losses alone will change the front office's calculus.

What Happened in the Loss to Houston?

The Chargers managed 15 points before Herbert was pulled in garbage time, per the Post. Houston led by as many as 23 points. Herbert's 58-yard touchdown pass to Quentin Johnston ended a 37-drive scoreless stretch dating to Week 5 against the Denver Broncos, the outlet reported — the team's first touchdown in eight games.

Who Else Is Available Before the Deadline?

The Post named three players drawing outside interest: Herbert, Mack and McConkey. No other names or specific offers were disclosed in the reporting, and the Chargers have not said publicly why they are holding those players rather than moving pieces for future assets.

What Changes Has the Team Made So Far?

The most visible in-season adjustment came before Sunday's game, when offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel was moved to the coaching booth — a change the Post said "fixed nothing." Head coach Jim Harbaugh watched from the sideline as the losing streak extended to eight games. Fans at SoFi Stadium wore paper bags over their heads during the game, an image captured in Associated Press photographs distributed with the Post's report.

"The organization has looked both stubborn and stupid halfway through the NFL season," the New York Post wrote in its assessment of the front office's refusal to deal.

What Comes Next for Los Angeles?

The trade deadline will force a decision one way or another. If the front office continues to hold Herbert, Mack and McConkey past Tuesday, the roster stays intact through the rest of the season regardless of the final record. If it reverses course, any return will likely be measured against what rival teams were reportedly offering before the 44-22 loss.

What to watch

• Whether the Chargers field or accept any trade calls before 4 p.m. ET Tuesday.
• Whether Harbaugh or the front office addresses the McDaniel move publicly.
• Whether Herbert's 58-yard touchdown to Johnston signals any offensive turnaround or was an isolated play in a blowout.

By the numbers

• 0-8: Chargers' record after the Houston loss.
• 44-22: Final score against the Texans.
• 37 drives: Span without a touchdown before Herbert-to-Johnston connection, per the Post.
• Nov. 10, 4 p.m. ET: NFL trade deadline.

The Post's full report, including sideline photographs from the game, is available at nypost.com.