Chargers focus on rookies and depth as third preseason game looms
The Los Angeles Chargers head into their third preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams on Saturday with a 2-0 exhibition record, a status that matters little for the regular season but signals attention to areas where the roster will take shape. The real value of the remaining exhibitions lies in competitions that could determine early involvement and future roles.
Wide receiver battle between two rookies
The Chargers are watching two first-year pass-c catchers battle for a meaningful role in 2025 after parting ways with longstanding veterans. KeAndre Lambert-Smith and Tre Harris have drawn the most attention at the position so far, though the competition isn’t just about preseason stats.
– KeAndre Lambert-Smith: In the first preseason game, Lambert-Smith logged 24 snaps with 2 targets, 2 receptions for 43 yards and 1 touchdown. In the second game, he played 27 snaps with 2 targets and no receptions. The contrast between the two outings is part of what the Chargers will weigh as they consider how Lambert-Smith can contribute when the games count.
– Tre Harris: Harris has been more limited in production across the two games, recording 24 snaps and 1 target with no receptions in the first game and 24 snaps with no targets in the second. His status as a second-round pick gives him a leg up in terms of draft pedigree, but repeated positive plays down the stretch will be necessary to secure early involvement in 2025.
The final two preseason contests will likely tilt the balance for one player to emerge as the preferred option for the team’s depth at receiver.
Depth cornerback competition
Two players have stood out at cornerback this preseason, creating an ongoing competition for a roster spot in a crowded room that includes veterans and perimeter options.
– Eric Rogers and Nikko Reed: Both have been among the Chargers’ best cornerbacks in the early exhibitions. They’ve shown NFL-caliber ability, but the room behind the top corners remains crowded with Tarheeb Still, Donte Jackson, Cam Hart, and Benjamin St-Juste among others. Since the roster spots at cornerback are limited, consistency in the next two games will be the deciding factor for one or both of these contenders.
Beyond the mirror of rotation depth, the Chargers must weigh how many corners they keep and how these players fit special-teams roles as well.
Depth outside linebacker and special teams
Special-teams value and edge versatility continue to be a focus as the Chargers evaluate depth behind their top rushers.
– Caleb Murphy vs. Kyle Kennard: Murphy has flashed early, including forcing a fumble on the opening play of the Hall of Fame Game against the Lions, which sparked a quick five-play scoring drive. He sits No. 11 in PFF’s preseason pass-rush grading at 86.3, underscoring his potential as a situational edge presence. Kennard, the fourth-round pick and the 2024 SEC Defensive Player of the Year, has seen limited action. He played 23 snaps in the Hall of Fame Game but did not record any stats and did not play against the Saints. The successful adjustment of Kennard’s versatile profile and Murphy’s impact on special-teams units will be watched closely.
What to watch in the next games
– How Harris or Lambert-Smith steps up with more opportunities in the final two preseason games.
– Whether Rogers or Reed can separate themselves in a crowded CB group through consistent play and special-teams value.
– If Kennard’s and Murphy’s performances translate into a more defined role on the edge or a strong special-teams contribution that helps one of them secure a spot.
A hopeful outlook
The Chargers have built a competitive environment where young receivers and defenders can prove their worth. The ongoing battles at receiver, cornerback, and on the edge reflect a team investing in depth and potential for 2025. Even as preseason results don’t determine the regular season, these performances offer a positive signal that the organization is developing players who could contribute meaningfully when the games matter.
Summary of the focal points
– Receiver competition between KeAndre Lambert-Smith and Tre Harris with two more preseason games to shape the depth chart.
– Cornerback depth battle between Eric Rogers and Nikko Reed in a crowded room.
– Outside linebacker and special teams evaluation featuring Caleb Murphy and Kyle Kennard, with Murphy making a notable early impact and Kennard seeking more field time to prove his fit.
If you’re following the Chargers this preseason, the next couple of exhibitions should reveal which young players can translate their camp momentum into real, contributing roles in 2025.