Los Angeles Chargers rookie tight end Oronde Gadsden II is emerging as a must-add in fantasy football following a breakout stretch that has vaulted him into the TE1 conversation.
Breakout Performance Against the Colts
Gadsden made headlines in Week 7 against the Indianapolis Colts, catching seven of nine targets for 164 yards and a touchdown. The fifth-round rookie from Syracuse, as he followed up his 11.8 PPR points from Week 6 against the lowly Dolphins with 29.4 PPR points against the solid Colts. This performance marked the most yards by a Chargers rookie tight end in 40 years, surpassing the previous mark held by Hall of Famer Antonio Gates.
Over the past two weeks, Gadsden has caught 14 passes for 232 yards, establishing himself as one of quarterback Justin Herbert’s preferred targets and demonstrating a clear upward trajectory in the Chargers offense.
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A Key Offensive Piece for the Los Angeles Chargers
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Originally drafted in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft out of Syracuse, Gadsden had a slow start to his rookie season, inactive in the first two games and with limited production through Week 5. Yet, recent performances suggest the Chargers see him as a foundational offensive piece. Analysts note that with injuries on the offensive line, Gadsden has become a reliable outlet for Herbert, complementing wide receivers Quentin Johnston, Ladd McConkey, and Keenan Allen.
As one observer explained, “While Ladd McConkey will still be a key building block for the team, having a go-to option underneath that can also stretch the field vertically from the tight end spot is something that Herbert has been missing. The Chargers have this now in Oronde Gadsden II.”
Fantasy Football Outlook and Value
Gadsden is currently rostered in just 2.1% of ESPN leagues, offering a clear opportunity for fantasy managers to acquire a high-upside option. With consistent target volume, proven big-play ability, and an expanding role, he presents one of the more reliable tight end prospects despite the inherent week-to-week variance at the position.
His 2025 numbers now stand at 22 receptions for 308 yards and one touchdown, largely thanks to his recent surge. For those seeking a difference-maker at tight end, the timing to add Gadsden is now. As ESPN concluded, “This rookie is producing like this, you pick them up immediately in hopes that he can be the next difference-maker at the position.”
With LA sitting at 4-3 and in contention in the AFC West, Gadsden’s rise could be a pivotal factor for both Los Angeles and fantasy rosters down the stretch.
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