Chargers Coach Offers Concerning Update on Rookie Receivers

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paul White | Last updated Jun 4, 2025 6:51 PM ET

It is no surprise at this point that the Los Angeles Chargers are seeking more production from their wide receivers this upcoming season.

They have repeatedly invested extremely valuable resources into the position but have hardly connected on any of these swings in years.

The lone bright spot for the receiver group last season was second-round pick Ladd McConkey who emerged as an elite receiver in last year’s draft class.

Given that he was Justin Herbert’s only reliable target all season, the Chargers used a second-round pick on Tre Harris, another wide receiver.

The team has high hopes for him, but a concerning report has come out about him and the other rookie receiver Los Angeles selected.

The Chargers started OTAs last week and although everyone is trying to regain their footing from last season, the team’s rookie pass catchers have gotten off to a slow start.

When asked about Harris and his fellow rookie, the team’s wide receiver coach had this to say, “Their fitness is not like our other guys.”

He then went on to say that he attributes the lack of progression to their hectic schedules leading up to and following the draft.

Harris was a high draft pick, so his spot with the team should be firmly in place.

However, this development is much more impactful for Keandre Lambert-Smith who was taken on day three and is much more of a longshot to make the team.

The receiver coach didn’t sound upset that his guys were behind the rest of the pack, but they will certainly need to make up ground fast.

At least one of them will be expected to make an immediate impact on the active roster, so they have no time to lollygag getting in shape.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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