Training camps around the league are beginning to open everywhere, but the Los Angeles Chargers, who will play in the preseason Hall of Fame Game, were given a jumpstart to their training camp, opening it up last week.
The team needs a player to step up at the wide receiver position following the sudden retirement of Mike Williams, and early on in camp, fifth-round pick KeAndre Lambert-Smith has been that guy. Lambert-Smith figured to be nothing more than added depth in his rookie year and possibly a guy who would just be stashed on the practice squad, but he has the talent to be a key contributor as a rookie.
Justin Herbert stated that the rookie has picked up the offense quickly and this catch on Tuesday was the highlight of the day.
KeAndre Lambert-Smith with an impressive toe tap 🩰
🎥: @chargers pic.twitter.com/gfvZ4105rK
— The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) July 22, 2025
Lambert-Smith began his college career at Penn State before transferring to Auburn. He had 176 receptions for 2,702 yards and 19 touchdowns during his college career. Still, he didn’t garner a lot of attention in the pre-draft process.
The Chargers need a player to step up in the passing game after last year’s playoff loss showed Ladd McConkey to be about the only player Herbert had any real confidence in. Quentin Johnston and Derius are still there. Tre Harris was selected in the second round and stands to have a big role as a rookie, but don’t overlook Lambert-Smith.
He has stood out amongst the crowd in camp thus far and when the Chargers take the field next Thursday night in Canton, Ohio, keep an eye on No. 84.
READ MORE CHARGERS CONTENT
Reliving the best game in the career of retired Chargers wide receiver Mike Williams
Chargers agree to deal with free-agent running back out of the league for two full seasons
Chargers just had door swing wide open to make major offensive addition
Would Keenan Allen even want to come back to the Chargers?
Keenan Allen is not the only former player Chargers should bring back to complete roster
