The Los Angeles Chargers are just 10 days from facing off against the Detroit Lions in Canton, Ohio, for the annual Hall of Fame game. A part of the benefit of competing in this traditional game is that fans get an early glimpse into who has earned playing time heading into the season.
After just a handful of training camp days, the Chargers have presented a rough sketch of who is still in the running and who has moved into the front at several key positions.
Chargers Training Camp Battles
Wide Receiver: Who is moving into the Spot Left By Mike Williams
In the wake of Mike Williams’ retirement, the big question was who would take reps alongside Ladd McConkey. While he is far from a fan favorite, it appears that Quentin Johnston has solidified within the first few days of camp.
Heading into Monday’s practice, several of the remaining receivers rotated in with the first team, including veterans Jalen Reagor and Derius Davis, as well as rookies Tre Harris and KeAndre Lambert-Smith, along with undrafted rookie Dalevon Campbell.
On Monday, that had been narrowed significantly. McConkey, Johnston and Reagor exclusively worked with Justin Herbert and the starting offensive line
Tight End: Harbaugh leans into Experience Blocking Prowess
Rookie Orande Gadsden was on multiple breakout candidates lists. Given his athleticism, he brings to a room that is far from the most dynamic in football, it is evident why. But at this point in training camp, it seems those forecasts were far too premature. Gadsden worked with Taylor Heinicke and Trey Lance on Monday, while Tyler Conklin and Will Dissly took reps with Herbert. Gadsen worked with the special teams’ inline blocking unit as well.
Considering the amount of emphasis Jim Harbaugh-led teams put on blocking and the degree of difficulty young tight ends have moving from college to the NFL, it was a long shot that Gadsden would earn significant playing time in his rookie season.
Gadsden’s usage in the Hall of Fame game will be telling.
Based on personnel groupings presented, the 2025 Chargers will utilize multi-tight end sets on a regular basis.
Cornerback: Late Round Draft Picks Step Up
New addition Donte Jackson has seemingly moved into the starting outside role vacated by Kristian Fulton, with second-year 5th-rounders Cam Hart and Tarheeb Still slotting in with him.
Still had an impressive rookie season, allowing a receiving percentage of just 65 percent on 75 targets, limiting explosive plays and picking off 4 passes.
Still had an impressive play against speedy slot receiver Darius Davis during Monday’s 11-on-11s. Still was able to stay with Davis step for step, forcing quarterback Heinicke to throw the ball deeper than his range. He overthrew Davis as a result, with the ball landing harmlessly out of bounds.
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