Training camp has officially started, and we’re in that place where we’re making way too early declarations, as the Los Angeles Chargers have only been through a few days without pads.
Especially when it comes to rookies, they can flip-flop every day, having good and bad practices. And in this rookie class in particular for the Los Angeles Chargers, there are already players like tight end Oronde Gadsden who have been standing out since minicamp.
But one of the way too early statements that I’ll start off this camp with is that safety R.J. Mickens is the rookie standout of these first few practices.
Los Angeles Chargers R.J. Mickens Credentials
Mickens was drafted in round six at pick 214 this year. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), looking at regular and postseason stats, he had the second-highest defensive grade of his Clemson teammates in 2024 (87.5%), and was number one in receiver coverage (89.8%).
He had the fifth most STOPs (26), tied with teammate linebacker Wade Woodaz for the third most pass breakups (five), and tied with a few teammates to be second in interceptions (two).
In his NFL combine analysis, he was rated “a good backup with the potential to develop into a starter.”
Football is in his blood, as his father, Ray Mickens, was a cornerback with various teams, the longest being the Jets.
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Lance Zierlein noted in his combine analysis that Mickens has a “very good wrap-up technique, utilizing his long wingspan to finish,” and that he’s “impressive at changing direction and breaking down as a tackler.”
In just looking at highlights, it’s clear Mickens can take the legs right out from under players and has a physical style.
On day two of mini camp, Eric Smith of Chargers.com relayed that Mickens picked off a pass headed for wide receiver Jalen Reagor. Mickens’ skills not only showed up in the offseason but are now on display in camp.
Mickens At Training Camp
On Day 2 of camp, Daniel Popper of The Athletic noted that Mickens interfered with a catch made by tight end McCallan Castles in 11-on-11 drills. “Quarterback Taylor Heinicke delivered an accurate ball, and Castles made the initial catch. But Mickens jarred the ball loose with a violent punch, forcing the incompletion.”
Mickens then had an interception on a pass meant for wide receiver Dez Fitzpatrick. “Receiver Dez Fitzpatrick had leaked across the field to the deep right corner amid the play action…Heinicke stopped his roll and floated a pass to Fitzpatrick. Mickens recognized the play fake and retreated before picking off the throw.”
Popper said that if Mickens continues with the highlights, he can challenge likely candidate Tony Jefferson for the fourth safety position.
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And coaches are noticing, as defensive coordinator Jesse Minter even said some kind words about Mickens after Day 2, when asked by Popper.
Jefferson is someone I’m rooting for as I wanted him to get extended. But much like 2024 fifth-round picks, cornerbacks Tarheeb Still and Cam Hart, these late-rounders for the Los Angeles Chargers can end up being stiff competition, and Mickens looks like he’s on his way to making a case for his spot on the team.