You never know when a team is going to find the next hidden gem. With general manager Joe Hortiz and head coach Jim Harbaugh running the show, it's fair to ponder the ceiling of every single addition the LA Chargers make.
For most teams, a random signing days before the first "real" preseason week would be viewed as a nothing burger. For the Chargers, this is a signing that could turn into something legitimate; it may not result in someone making the 53-man roster, but it could result in the Bolts getting a sleeper on the practice squad.
That is why Chargers fans should at least remember the name Thomas Yassmin, who signed with the Bolts on Thursday. To make room for the former Broncos tight end, the Chargers waived/injured tight end Jordan Petaia, who was one of the most unique players on the roster.
And in classic Harbaugh fashion, the Bolts are replacing one unique passing weapon with someone who is just as unique.
Chargers sign former rugby player Thomas Yassmin to replace former rugby player Jordan Petaia
Harbaugh really just wants to get a former rugby player on the roster, it seems.
Petaia signed with the Chargers in April as part of the league's International Player Pathway program. The 25-year-old Australian had never played American football before but had seven years of professional rugby experience.
Petaia spent the last six years on the Queensland Reds in Super Rugby. He has also made 31 appearances for the Australian national team.
Yassmin has a similar background to Petaia with more NFL experience. The former Utah Utes tight end spend the 2024 season on the Denver Broncos practice squad, but did not play in a game. He too was part of the league's IPP program.
Prior to his stint at Utah, Yassmin played college basketball and rugby in Australia. While he does not have the same pro experience that Petaia has in the rugby scene, he brings a college basketball background that usually works out well for Chargers tight ends.
The Chargers' tight end room is pretty deep with Yassmin having no real chance of making any kind of headway for a roster spot. However, if he can impress during camp and in the team's three remaining preseason games, he could be someone the Chargers keep around on the practice squad.