Oronde Gadsden II
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It's been an amazing offseason for one specific Los Angeles Chargers rookie.
The Los Angeles Chargers may have found a Day 3 gem in tight end Oronde Gadsden II. Despite falling to the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft due to his injury history and blocking ability, Gadsden is quickly rewriting the narrative.
The former Syracuse standout is emerging as a breakout candidate this offseason, thanks to his exceptional receiving skills, rapid development, and instant chemistry with quarterback Justin Herbert.
Oronde Gadsden II Turning Heads in Breakout Offseason with Chargers
Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski listed Gadsden as the No. 1 non-first-round rookie tight end projected to be a breakout weapon in 2025. Sobleski forecasted a strong rookie stat line for Gadsden, with 60 receptions, 650 yards, and six touchdowns. Those numbers would make him one of the most productive rookie tight ends in recent memory.
That level of optimism isn’t just speculative, it’s grounded in what Gadsden has shown during offseason practices.
A big part of Gadsden’s appeal is his hybrid skill set. He was originally recruited to Syracuse as a wide receiver. Despite the transition to TE in college, Gadsden set new records at Syracuse due to his abilities as a wide receiver with 141 catches for 1,970 yards across 28 games.
This kind of versatility fits perfectly into offensive coordinator Greg Roman’s offense, which emphasizes dynamic playmakers and creative deployment of personnel.
Roman has already taken notice of the fifth-round pick’s unique skill set this offseason. “I think he’s going to ascend quickly,” Roman said. “He’s flashing some really good things.”
Chargers Wire writer Gavino Borquez highlighted Gadsden as a standout during minicamp, stating, “Gadsden was the most productive tight end in Syracuse history, and he flashed those receiving chops throughout the week. Gadsden worked his way into time with the first-team offense, where he and Herbert connected for some big plays. While he was drafted on Day 3, Gadsden should quickly establish a role in the offense in Year 1.”
Chemistry with Justin Herbert and Path to a Key Role
Oronde Gadsden II
GettyOronde Gadsden II participating in a drill during the NFL Scouting Combine.
Continuing the connection between Herbert and Gadsden, The Athletic’s Daniel Popper added to the instant chemistry, stating, “Herbert and Gadsden connected on an explosive wheel route in the final period of practice. Gadsden is a smooth mover who can stretch defenses vertically, and this is the type of play in which he can make an impact as a rookie. Gadsden has also shown some run-after-the-catch ability this spring.”
The fact that Gadsden is already getting looks with the first-team offense over veterans like Tyler Conklin and Will Dissly is a clear indicator that the Chargers are preparing him for an immediate role. But perhaps the most telling sign of Gadsden’s rapid rise is Herbert’s strong praise. “He’s picked up the offense really well and has been getting a bunch of reps with us. Anytime I can get out there and get him the ball to see what he can do, he’s made some big-time plays.” Herbert also added that Gadsden is “everything they thought” he would be.
Don’t be surprised if Gadsden ends up as one of the most impactful rookies in 2025, and not just among tight ends.