Every Surprise Los Angeles Chargers Standout From Preseason

Avery Smith

Avery Smith has been one of the biggest surprises of Chargers training camp. The undrafted rookie cornerback has consistently made plays throughout camp, including two pass breakups on Day 4 before becoming one of the defensive standouts again on Day 5

For an undrafted player competing for one of the final spots in a crowded secondary, Smith has done exactly what he needed to do: make it increasingly difficult for the coaching staff to overlook him

Junior Colson

This one should make most fans happy, as the former third-round pick is finally living up to his potential. While having 2 seasons of bad circumstances, Colson has emerged as a legit linebacker who could potentially land a meaningful roster spot. The room is full of talent, yet he has plenty of opportunity to make something great happen.

Junior Colson notably flashed against the 49ers, where he recorded the Chargers' first touchdown with a pick-six. It was a splash play that gave the team some momentum. Colson had vision and the athleticism that I have not yet seen from him. The preseason has gone very well for him, and should continue in the right direction

Travis Burke

Travis Burke has quietly turned himself into one of the more impressive young players in Chargers training camp. The fourth-round rookie has shown that his massive 6-foot-9 frame is more than just a physical trait, consistently competing in the trenches and making his presence felt against the Chargers’ defensive front. On Day 14, the Chargers reported that Burke won all four of his one-on-one reps, via Chargers.com.

What makes Burke’s development even more encouraging is that he’s already earning opportunities against NFL-caliber competition. The Chargers previously highlighted him as one of the standouts when the team first put the offensive linemen through full-padded practice.

Kyle Kennard

This one is fascinating as many saw him as an immediate successor to some of the veterans on the defensive line, but it did not go the way they expected. Some players need more development than others.

Kyle Kennard is one of those guys, flashing in the 2026 camp. He has been a frequent name on every camp recap, making countless plays when needed. As the defensive front continues to change, Kennard could possibly have a role if he keeps up the great preseason.

Jacob Spomer

Recent circumstances have created real chances for this young center. Being underdrafted is already an uphill battle and does not get easier as time goes on. Jacob Spomer has created real buzz though, especially with Tyler Biadasz officially on injured reserve.

Spomer displayed pretty good pass blocking for both quarterbacks in last week's matchup with San Francisco The need for a backup center has suddenly become a topic that needs to be addressed, but it might be solved quicker than anticipated.