We've seen Los Angeles Chargers tight end Oronde Gadsden II torch opposing defenses almost immediately upon entering the NFL. Yet, the rising second-year contributions to the club's ground game — or lack thereof — prevented him from being a consistent threat as a rookie.
Being able to make plays with the ball got Gadsden on the field, but his inability to do the little things at a high level cost him playing time. The Chargers delegated traditional in-line blocking responsibilities to veteran Will Dissly, one of several of their free agents still available. That's why Los Angeles brought in Charlie Kolar, formerly of the Baltimore Ravens, and perhaps even overpaid for him.
It's fair to wonder whether the Chargers giving Kolar a considerable amount of money will come at Gadsden's expense. However, the newfound duo complements each other and was built by design to coexist, as Daniel Popper of The Athletic highlighted ($):
"[The Chargers] signed tight end Charlie Kolar at a little over $8 million [annually]. Kolar is an elite run blocker who is an ideal fit in McDaniel's movement offense. ... He will allow Oronde Gadsden to play in a role that maximizes the 2025 fifth-round pick's receiving skill set."
Chargers beat writer lays the groundwork for Oronde Gadsden II to thrive alongside Charlie Kolar
Dissly was a cap casualty this offseason following an injury-marred second campaign in Los Angeles. His extended absence forced Gadsden into an unsuitable near-every-down role, which hurt the team in more ways than one. So, the Chargers made a concerted effort to replace him quickly and properly with Kolar.
Los Angeles rewarded Kolar for doing the dirty work, not for his hands. The 27-year-old only needed 10 catches, 142 yards and two touchdowns to set career-highs across the board as a receiver in 2025. Despite the exorbitant price tag, the Chargers acquired him for his efforts in the less-exciting element of football, allowing Gadsden to handle the fun stuff.
Gadsden wasn't active for the Chargers first two contests this past season, though he wasted no time asserting himself when given the chance. There was a one-month period from Weeks 6 through 9 where the former Syracuse standout showcased his prolific pass-catching prowess, as the numbers bear out.
During that stretch, Gadsden ranked fourth in the entire league in receiving yards (377) and tied for the third-most receptions (24).
Note: Stats courtesy of Fantasy Points' data suite ($).