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Jim Harbaugh goes on rant about Chargers rookie who can help QB Justin Herbert in a massive way this season

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Adam Holt | Last updated Jun 13, 2025 2:40 PM ET

The Los Angeles Chargers are a hype factory. Jim Harbaugh at the helm has that effect. He is pumped up about his players, and that confidence shines elsewhere around the roster and staff.

His latest comments should make Chargers fans ready to see a rookie player who could make a notable impact for LA's offense as a first-year pro.

Jim Harbaugh raves about rookie TE

The Chargers head coach shared some incredibly positive words about tight end Oronde Gadsden II during media availability this week.

Gadsden is constantly involved in some aspect of getting better so far this offseason, whether that's studying, in the weight room, or training with other players.

Jim Harbaugh raving about TE Oronde Gadsden II for almost 3 minutes: pic.twitter.com/bHidGzLQv7
— Alex Insdorf (@alexinsdorf99) June 12, 2025

Gadsden was a player who many scouts felt could be a day three steal due to his upside. His physical tools were very exciting, and some of his best reps in college could have headlined this tight end class.

If the Colts get to day three and still haven't taken a TE, I think a lot of the fan base will be fuming with anger. And while I don't think it would be a wise decision, there are some intriguing options that could make sense for the team to target. The first is Syracuse TE Oronde Gadsden II, who began his college career as a WR. Gadsden II doesn't have the same story as the typical TE who converted from WR because he had real success at the position. During his sophomore year at Syracuse, he put up 975 yards and six touchdowns before switching to TE in 2023. He only appeared in two games due to injury in 2023 but was able to show his worth at his new position in 2024 by recording 934 yards and a career-high seven touchdowns. Like Mason Taylor, Gadsden has been around the league for quite some time. His father, Oronde Gadsden, was an NFL pass catcher in his day.

-- Destin Adams

For Los Angeles, they needed to address the TE position this offseason. It was simply a must after last year's finish.

Many people felt that they would do that a bit more aggressively, but the early returns via comments and practice reports seem to indicate they may have gotten great value with Gadsden. We will see if he can make an impact for quarterback Justin Herbert in year one with the Chargers.