The LA Chargers were already thin at wide receiver. Then, Mike Williams dropped a shocking piece of news that has left the Chargers seemingly barren at the position.
Williams retired this week after returning to Los Angeles in free agency. He was expected to play a significant role in the Chargers' offense.
In the wake of his retirement news, rumors have been swirling about potential trades or free agent acquisitions that would land the Chargers a new wideout. But the answer might already be in the building.
KeAndre Lambert-Smith could be the Chargers' Mike Williams replacement
In the NFL, a shocking turn of events for one player can often mean an unexpected opportunity for another. Chargers rookie KeAndre Lambert-Smith may have just been given the opportunity of a lifetime.
The Chargers picked Lambert-Smith out of Auburn in the fifth round of April's draft. At the time, he was set to be a depth piece with the potential to grow into a role. Now, he has a real chance to become a starter as a rookie.
Ladd McConkey and Tre Harris were already expected to hold two of the starting receiver spots for the Chargers. But Williams was set to take the third.
With Williams gone, the Chargers need a receiver who can win on the outside and threaten defenses vertically. Quentin Johnson, for all his growth since his rookie season, doesn't fit that mold. Neither does Keenan Allen, who has been linked with Los Angeles all offseason.
That's where Lambert-Smith can step in.
Lambert-Smith wasn't especially productive in college. He started out at Penn State, where he played a limited role. After four seasons, he transferred to Auburn for his final year of eligibility. There, he had his best season yet, with 981 yards and 8 touchdowns.
While his collegiate production leaves something to be desired, Lambert-Smith has the tools to be successful in the NFL. He's 6'1" and ran a blazing 4.37-second forty-yard dash at the NFL Combine.
He ran a limited route tree at Auburn, but he showed the ability to beat defensive backs over the top with his speed and ball skills.
According to Chargers reporter Chris Hayre, Lambert-Smith is already making an impact in training camp. He seems to have a growing connection with Justin Herbert, which will be crucial in the young receiver's development.
If nothing else, Williams' retirement gives Lambert-Smith the opportunity to earn a few extra reps in training camp. If he can use those plays to showcase his skill set, he could come out of nowhere to win a starting job in his rookie year.