What are realistic expectations for Chargers rookies in 2025?
The Chargers took a balanced approach with their draft class, adding depth at several positions on both sides of the ball, including a few skill players and defensive contributors.
Here are the expectations of the team's rookies heading into the 2025 season.
RB Omarion Hampton
Hampton is expected to provide a significant boost in the running game alongside veteran Najee Harris. Some project Hampton to push for over 1,000 rushing yards and even lead all rookies in touchdowns from scrimmage. With his skillset as a physical and downhill runner, coupled with his receiving ability, and an improved offensive line, the former North Carolina product should get the most out of his volume of touches. It wouldn't be surprising to see Hampton finish top 3 in Offensive Rookie of the Year voting at the end of the season.
WR Tre Harris
Harris should have a sizable role from Day 1. Slated to start on the outside, Harris brings size, physicality and a vertical threat to the receiver room. He should be able to win contested catches and make impressive plays in traffic and be a valuable target in the red zone. I expect him to establish himself as Justin Herbert's go-to down-the-field target, and I'm projecting him to finish with 40-50 catches for 550-650 yards and four to six touchdowns.
DL Jamaree Caldwell
The Chargers need production from the nose tackle position after the loss of Poona Ford, which Caldwell should fill. The former Oregon product is expected to contribute on early downs against the run with his ability to fill gaps and occupy blockers. Caldwell does possess good quickness and movement skills, which could make him more than just a run defender.
EDGE Kyle Kennard
Kennard will likely start his career as a third-down or situational pass rusher, as well as serving as a special-teams player. The Chargers need more juice in that department and with his explosiveness, ability to win with speed around the edge and high motor, they should get good production from him in that department.
WR KeAndre Lambert-Smith
There's a lot to be excited about with Lambert-Smith, as the Chargers finally added a wide receiver with game-breaking speed. The former Auburn product presents another outside receiver for the offense alongside Mike Williams, Quentin Johnston and Harris. Despite his speed, Lambert-Smith is unlikely to see the field that much, being low on the depth chart. I could see him getting 5-10 snaps per game.
TE Oronde Gadsden
The fifth-round pick out of Syracuse has been one of the summer standouts up to this point, flashing his upside in the passing game. Gadsden has Tyler Conklin and Will Dissly ahead of him on the depth chart, but it will be difficult to keep him off the field. He provides a vertical threat and a valuable target down the seam. I see him creating mismatches and contributing on offense in his first year.
OL Branson Taylor
Taylor should make the 53-man roster, but only as a developmental piece. He will likely be a backup option at guard with tackle flexibility.
S R.J. Mickens
Mickens will be competing for one of the final safety spots with Tony Jefferson. It wouldn't be surprising if both players are kept. Mickens is unlikely to play much on the defensive side of the ball. But his traits and experience on punt coverage in college will make him a solid special-teams player.
CB Trikweze Bridges
Bridges has a lot of competition for a spot in the defensive back room. Injuries would likely have to occur in camp or preseason for him to make the cut. The likely scenario is Bridges ends up on the practice squad.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Expectations for Chargers rookies in 2025
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