There isn't a pick from the LA Chargers' 2025 NFL Draft class that has aged better than fifth-rounder Oronde Gadsden II. Gadsden currently holds the throne for the best value pick in the Chargers' draft class, and he may never give that slot up.
Gadsden had his second great game in a row in Week 8 and did it in front of a national audience on Thursday Night Football. Donning the navy uniforms that are reminiscent of the good old days, fans couldn't help but think of Antonio Gates while Gadsden carved up the Vikings for five catches, 77 yards, and one touchdown.
Fans aren't the only ones who are big fans of the rookie tight end. Both head coach Jim Harbaugh and quarterback Justin Herbert heaped immense praise on Gadsden after the game. And can you blame them?
"The thing that strikes me the most is he plays like he's been playing in the NFL for 2, 3, 4 years," Harbaugh said. "I'm sure Mr. and Mrs. Gadsden have poured that into him. Well coached into him and well parented into Oronde - bodes well for the Chargers."
Justin Herbert's praise of Oronde Gadsden II went even further
Herbert is just as big of a fan of his rookie tight end as his head coach. The star quarterback echoed many of the same feelings as Harbaugh, saying exactly what Chargers fans wanted to hear after Gadsden's breakout performance.
"As soon as he got here for camp, we knew he was going to be pretty good. He made a ton of plays, picked up the offense really quickly, found a way to get open. And that's what he did tonight," Herbert said. "We're definitely going to get him the ball as much as we can because good things happen when he gets it."
That's music to Chargers fans' ears. Herbert and offensive coordinator Greg Roman are going to prioritize getting Gadsden the ball as much as possible. And the more that happens, the more opportunities will be created for other pass catchers on offense.
Just ask Ladd McConkey. His touchdown in the game was a direct result of the Vikings double-teaming Gadsden.
If Herbert's comments weren't enough evidence that the Chargers are prioritizing Gadsden moving forward, just look at the team's roster moves ahead of the game. In a shocking turn, veteran tight end Will Dissly was a healthy scratch. This opened the door for Gadsden to do what he did.
Gadsden is clearly the starting tight end for the Chargers after Week 7. And boy, is it the right decision. Gadsden has arrived and he isn't going anywhere anytime soon.