The Los Angeles Chargers are disappointed after their playoff elimination against the New England Patriots, but that shouldn’t take away from the accomplishments they made throughout the season.
One of
the bigger triumphs for the Chargers came with the rookie class, which came in at No. 8 in ESPN writer Aaron Schatz’s ranking.
“The Chargers’ rookie impact came primarily from skill players on offense, led by fifth-round tight end Oronde Gadsden. He ended the season with 49 catches for 664 yards and three touchdowns. First-round running back Omarion Hampton missed games because of a fractured ankle but ended up with 124 carries for 545 yards and four touchdowns in nine games. Second-round wide receiver Tre’ Harris was less productive than expected but had 30 catches for 324 yards and a touchdown,” Schatz wrote.
“On defense, the most impactful rookie was sixth-round safety RJ Mickens. He started five games and had 29 combined tackles with two interceptions as part of a three-safety package with Derwin James Jr. and Elijah Molden. Third-round defensive tackle Jamaree Caldwell had five starts and 31 combined tackles with a forced fumble. Other impact players included undrafted cornerback Nikko Reed and fifth-round wide receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith.”
The only teams that ranked ahead of the Chargers were the Chicago Bears, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, New England Patriots, New York Giants, Cleveland Browns, and New Orleans Saints.
The Chargers got some production from everyone in the rookie class, so that’s certainly a positive. There are building blocks for a strong foundation, which is crucial for the team in order to move closer towards a Super Bowl.
BFTB community, what do you think of the Chargers’ rookie class? Chime off in the comments section below.
