Los Angeles Chargers rookie Oronde Gadsden II is the talk of the 2024 offseason, impressing Justin Herbert. Is this 5th-round pick the next big star? (June 2025)
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
While the NFL world was looking elsewhere, the Los Angeles Chargers may have quietly found a diamond in the rough. Fifth-round pick Oronde Gadsden II is no longer just a camp body; he's rapidly becoming the talk of the team's offseason program. With crisp route-running and hands that seem to catch everything, the unheralded rookie is making a compelling case to be a significant weapon for Justin Herbert this fall.
A fifth-round pick is drawing first-round buzz. Oronde Gadsden II is the surprise story of the Chargers' offseason.
Every year, a player comes out of nowhere to capture the imagination of the coaching staff and fanbase. This year, it's Oronde Gadsden II. The rookie receiver, speaking to the media on Tuesday alongside fellow rookie Tre' Harris, talked about the grind of learning the NFL playbook and the invaluable experience of building chemistry with QB Justin Herbert. But his actions on the field are speaking even louder. Coaches and analysts have been wowed by his polish and reliability, traits that are quickly elevating him from a developmental prospect to a potential day-one contributor. In an offense looking for new playmakers, Gadsden is forcing his way into the conversation.
The good news kept rolling in on the injury front. In a huge positive step, linebacker Daiyan Henley and cornerback Cam Hart both returned to team drills for the first time since their respective offseason surgeries. Their presence is a welcome sight for a defense looking to be at full strength. Elsewhere, the team is playing it safe. A handful of players, including S Elijah Molden, CB Deane Leonard, and receivers Luke Grimm, Mike Williams, and KeAndre Lambert-Smith, were limited to side work. However, the team stressed that none of the injuries are considered serious, indicating a cautious approach to ensure everyone is 100% ready for the rigors of training camp.
The wait is almost over. The Chargers officially dropped their 2025 training camp schedule, giving fans a concrete date to look forward to. Players are set to report to the team's Costa Mesa facility on Wednesday, July 16, with the first official practice kicking off the next day on Thursday, July 17. For fans eager to get a first-hand look at Gadsden, a healthy roster, and the new-look Chargers, you'll need to register in advance for tickets, as capacity will be limited. It's time to mark your calendars and get ready for football.
With key players getting healthy, a potential star emerging from the middle rounds of the draft, and the official start of the season now circled on the calendar, the Chargers are building serious momentum. The offseason buzz is palpable, and all eyes will be on Costa Mesa in mid-July to see if this promising young roster can turn potential into production. The countdown to training camp is officially on.
