KeAndre Lambert-Smith, the former Auburn standout, has been officially assigned the jersey number 84 by the Los Angeles Chargers after being drafted in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. This number is a traditional choice for wide receivers and symbolizes his new beginning in the NFL.

During his time at Auburn, Lambert-Smith made waves with 981 receiving yards and eight touchdowns from 50 receptions, showcasing significant talent. Notably, he impressed scouts at the East-West Shrine Bowl, demonstrating a broader route tree than what was expected from him at Auburn. His agility and speed are expected to enhance the Chargers' aerial attack, providing a much-needed option on the outside for quarterback Justin Herbert.

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 Auburn Tigers faced a historic moment in the NFL draft, marking the first time in 30 years that no player was selected in the first three rounds. Running back Jarquez Hunter was the first Auburn player taken, going in the fourth round. The Los Angeles Chargers added former Penn State receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith in the fifth round. Lambert-Smith, who made a name for himself with 981 receiving yards at Auburn, received praise from Jon Gruden, who calls him a 'great addition' to the Chargers. Other notable selections by the Chargers included running back Omarion Hampton and defensive tackle Jamaree Caldwell.

In total, the Chargers made several strategic picks, showcasing a blend of offense and defense. Notably absent from the draft were several Auburn talents, including quarterback Payton Thorne and linebacker Eugene Asante. The draft results have raised eyebrows, particularly regarding the decline in Auburn's football talent being recognized at the major league level.

The Auburn Tigers have experienced a dramatic decline in football performance over the past few years, failing to finish ranked in the AP Top 25 or achieve more than six wins in any season from 2020 to 2024. This downturn has culminated in a dismal 2025 NFL Draft, where only three players were selected, marking a historic low for the program. Notably, this is just the third time in 30 years that Auburn has had fewer than four draft picks, with none making it to the first four rounds. Running back Jarquez Hunter was picked by the Los Angeles Rams at 117th overall, while KeAndre Lambert-Smith and Jalen McLeod were later selected by the Los Angeles Chargers and Jacksonville Jaguars, respectively. The once-proud program that sent multiple players to the NFL is facing a significant challenge in rebuilding.

KeAndre Lambert-Smith, a former wide receiver for Penn State, has made a successful transition to the NFL, being drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. After a productive final season at Auburn, where he recorded 981 yards and eight touchdowns, Lambert-Smith aimed for a fresh start away from Penn State, where he amassed 1,721 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns over three seasons. His selection reflects the Chargers' commitment to enhancing their receiving corps, especially under the guidance of head coach Jim Harbaugh.

Lambert-Smith's journey showcases his resilience and adaptability, indicating that he could become a key asset for the Chargers moving forward. As he joins a team that includes standout players, his performance in the SEC could translate well to the NFL, offering fantasy managers a potential sleeper pick if he can secure a prominent role on the depth chart.