Three Chargers preseason battles rise from the training camp grind as they face the Rams. Tre Harris and KeAndre Lambert-Smith are vying for a lead role behind the veteran trio at receiver, with Harris flashing as a rookie second-rounder and Lambert-Smith delivering in the Hall of Fame Game. Their continued showings over the final two tune-ups will shape the 2025 target tree and fantasy upside behind the Chargers’ top options.

Tarheeb Still and others loom in the cornerback depth chart, as Eric Rogers and Nikko Reed press for a roster spot. The winner could carve out a sub-package role and even push for starting reps if injuries hit. On the edge, Caleb Murphy and Kyle Kennard are jockeying for the No. 4 outside linebacker slot, mixing pass rush with special teams and rotational play to keep the Chargers’ top rushers fresh.

Bottom line: these battles will tilt depth charts and fantasy value in late August, with the 2025 Chargers needing contributors outside their obvious stars. Expect sharp competition, rotational snaps, and surprise contributors as cuts approach.

The Los Angeles Chargers made a significant impact during the recent NFL draft, focusing on acquiring competitive players to enhance their roster. General Manager Joe Hortiz emphasized the importance of adding tough, smart athletes who can contribute immediately. Key picks included running back Omarion Hampton and receivers Tre Harris and KeAndre Lambert-Smith, aimed at bolstering their offense around quarterback Justin Herbert. With their first six picks dedicated to skill positions, the Chargers aim to address last season's offensive struggles. However, concerns linger about the offensive line, which will need to improve after allowing multiple sacks in crucial games.

Hortiz also expressed optimism about the team’s interior line competition, particularly with the addition of sixth-round rookie Branson Taylor and established veterans like Mekhi Becton. Additionally, defensive picks like Jamaree Caldwell and Kyle Kennard aim to strengthen the Chargers' defensive front, especially with the absence of star edge rusher Joey Bosa. Overall, the Chargers hope this draft class can help them make a deeper playoff run under new head coach Jim Harbaugh.

The Los Angeles Chargers have bolstered their edge rusher depth by selecting Kyle Kennard, the Southeastern Conference Defensive Player of the Year, with the 125th overall pick in the NFL Draft. Kennard's impressive college stats include leading the SEC with 11.5 tackles for loss and 11.5 sacks in 2024, earning him the prestigious Bronko Nagurski Trophy. This move comes at a crucial time for the Chargers as they navigate changes in their edge rusher lineup following the release of Joey Bosa and the re-signing of Khalil Mack, who, at 34, and Bud Dupree, 32, may not be long-term solutions.

With the team undergoing key transitions, third-year player Tuli Tuipulotu is anticipated to take on a larger role after recording 8.5 sacks last season. Kennard's entry adds a youthful dynamic to an evolving defensive strategy as the Chargers aim to maintain competitive pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

The Los Angeles Rams are looking at an interesting 2025 NFL Draft with three picks in the first 101 selections. ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. and Field Yates have made some bold predictions in their latest mock draft. Among the highlighted picks is Maxwell Hairston from Kentucky, a cornerback known for his speed and ball skills, selected at 26. Additionally, the Rams could take Ohio State quarterback Will Howard in the third round, a move that could signal preparations for life after Matthew Stafford. Lastly, South Carolina's Kyle Kennard, an edge rusher, is projected for the 101st pick, adding depth to the Rams' defense.