Chargers rookie is already living up to the hype during training camp

The LA Chargers seemingly landed one of the best steals of the 2025 NFL Draft when the team traded up to take Oronde Gadsden II in the fifth round. Gadsden was one of the most exciting pass-catching tight ends in what was a loaded class and has real potential to develop into a legitimate weapon.

Typically, it takes years for a fifth-round tight end to actually develop into a consistent pass-catching weapon. That may not be the case with Gadsden. Gadsden wasted no time turning heads at Chargers minicamp earlier this summer and his incredible work ethic became a big talking point.

The Gadsden hype is not slowing down now that Chargers training camp is underway. In fact, it's growing. Gadsden was one of the biggest standouts during the team's Saturday night practice, cementing his status as a fast riser on the Bolts' depth chart.

Oronde Gadsden II is living up to Chargers fans' expectations thus far

It can be dangerous for a fan base to hitch its wagon on a late-round pick and expect that rookie to turn into an impact player. After all, most late-round draft picks, especially at skill positions, don't end up making a true impact in the league.

Gadsden still has to go out and prove it during the regular season, but all signs are pointing to Gadsden living up to the hype. The pass-catching skill set is obviously there and Chargers fans are already seeing the earliest version of it.

Gadsden's incredible work rate will bode well as a professional as well. The rookie tight end made headlines during OTAs when it was revealed that he was showing up to the training facility before anyone else at 5 AM. Any hiccups in his game will get ironed out with this incredible work ethic.

Plus, those hiccups in his game may not even exist to the extent his scouting report made it seem. Blocking was viewed as a hole in Gadsden's game, which would likely limit him to red-zone and third-down opportunities as a pass-catcher.

However, Jim Harbaugh told reporters earlier this summer that Gasden was a far better blocker than the tape suggested. If Gadsden is already ahead of the curve, the sky truly is the limit working under this coaching staff.

Again, Gadsden has to go out and actually produce in the regular season to cement himself as a definitive home run. However, based on the early returns, that seems like a matter of when, not if.