Oronde Gadsden II is one of the most beloved rookies from the LA Chargers' 2025 draft class after his impressive showing in training camp. While that was enough to earn him adulation from Chargers fans, it wasn't enough to get him an active roster spot in Week 1.
In a move that shocked fans beyond belief, Jim Harbaugh opted to make the rookie tight end a healthy scratch in Week 1 against the Kansas City Chiefs. This seemed impossible three weeks ago; now, it's just the reality.
Harbaugh has built up so much equity with the fanbase that one controversial decision won't rattle his approval rating. However, that previous equity does nothing to explain why the Bolts are benching one of their biggest preseason standouts.
Oronde Gadsden II headlines Chargers inactives vs. Chiefs
Chagers inactives | Position |
|---|---|
Oronde Gadsden II | TE |
Tucker Fisk | TE |
Foster Sarell | T |
RJ Mickens | S |
Kyle Kennard | EDGE |
Naquan Jones | DL |
Nikko Reed | DB |
The Chargers carried four tight ends on the 53-man roster, which was more than initially expected. Tucker Fisk emerged as the best blocker in the room not named Will Dissly, prompting the Chargers to go with four tight ends instead of four running backs.
That decision makes the Chargers' choice to carry just two active tight ends in Brazil all the stranger. The Chargers could have had more running back depth with the great unknown that is Najee Harris. Instead, the Bolts utilized that extra tight end only to make them both inactive.
Making Gadsden a healthy scratch in itself isn't the most shocking move. After all, he is a day-three selection from the most recent draft class with no NFL experience. Regardless of the training camp hype, these players typically have to fight for every single active gameday they can get.
Just look at Justin Eboigbe, who hardly played last season after being taken in the middle rounds by the Chargers. This is not an uncommon development.
The part that is hard to wrap your mind around is the decision to carry just two tight ends. The tight end position is so important in Greg Roman's offense and the Chargers are opening the door for real disaster against the Chiefs.
What if Dissly or Tyler Conklin get hurt in the game? The Chargers would only have one active tight end. Would Scott Matlock then get tight end snaps? Does Jim Harbaugh have another ace up his sleeve with a defensive player who could play on offense?
Making Gadsden a healthy scratch is already an unpopular decision because of how beloved he was during training camp. Adding Tucker Fisk to the inactives list as well simply doesn't make sense.