The Los Angeles Chargers’ turnaround under head coach Jim Harbaugh happened faster than most expected.
After struggling for consistency in recent years, the Chargers became one of the NFL’s biggest surprises in 2024, finishing with an 11-6 record and making the playoffs.
Harbaugh’s influence helped shape a clear, physical identity for the team, anchored by a top-tier defense and a straightforward, effective offense that kept opponents guessing.
As the Chargers look ahead to 2025, their focus on smart, targeted investments could push them even closer to the Super Bowl, especially if new offensive weapons continue to develop.
Oronde Gadsden II Named Biggest Surprise of Chargers’ Offseason
Justin Herbert’s growth as a quarterback over the past two seasons has been notable, especially compared to his explosive early years that established him among the league’s best passers.
While some of this change is due to adjustments in his on-field approach, a bigger factor has been the team’s lack of elite offensive playmakers.
The Chargers’ passing attack struggled at times last season, which contributed to their early playoff exit. To address this, Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz made offense a priority in the 2025 draft.
Of the Chargers’ first six draft picks, four were offensive players. The top two selections – running back Omarion Hampton out of North Carolina and wide receiver Tre Harris from Ole Miss – were expected to help immediately.
But the biggest standout so far has been rookie tight end Oronde Gadsden II, a fifth-round pick. According to insider Kris Rhim in a piece for ESPN, Gadsden impressed coaches and teammates with his combination of speed and size, quickly becoming Herbert’s favorite target during offseason workouts despite his rookie status. He’s even earned high grades from Chargers tight ends coach Andy Bischoff.
Chargers TEs coach Andy Bischoff on Oronde Gadsden II’s blocking:
“I think he’s better than we thought. His fundamentals are clean.”
“He has a willingness. When we do a 1 man sled in the corner of the field, he’s just as into it as Tucker Fisk.”
Gadsden told Bischoff, “I want… pic.twitter.com/FiC6lSwknJ
— Alex Insdorf (@alexinsdorf99) June 16, 2025
Gadsden enters a tight end room that already includes Will Dissly, Tyler Conklin, and Tucker Fisk. Based on his performance in the offseason, he has a strong chance to move up the depth chart before the regular season begins.
His poise, willingness to work, and skillset have made a strong impression on the coaching staff, and his versatility could be a key factor in the Chargers’ offensive plans.
Herbert, known for his strong arm and ability to extend plays, needs reliable targets to maximize his potential. Last year, rookie wide receiver Ladd McConkey made an immediate impact, and the return of Mike Williams gives Herbert another trusted option.
The Chargers’ offense is expected to be more dynamic in 2025, thanks in part to these new additions and the continued development of their young core.
According to projections from Pro Football Network, the Chargers are expected to make the playoffs again with an 11-6 record. While these projections are not official, they reflect the optimism surrounding the team’s direction.
To avoid another early playoff exit, the Chargers will need more consistency and explosiveness from their offense. Progress will start with the chemistry between Herbert and his new targets, including Gadsden, as the team looks to build on last season’s success.