Greg Roman believes this rookie will ascend quickly in 2025
The Chargers needed more production out of their tight ends in the receiving department. So they went out and signed veteran Tyler Conklin, and selected Oronde Gadsden II in the fifth round of this year’s draft.
Offensive coordinator Greg Roman spoke to the media on Wednesday and praised Gadsden.
“I think he’s going to ascend quickly,” Roman said. He’s flashing some really good things.”
Gadsden has already impressed with his pass-catching prowess, as he and Justin Herbert connected on an explosive wheel route in the final period of practice, according to The Athletic’s Daniel Popper. Popper also noted that he has shown some run-after-the-catch ability.
Gadsden is removed from a collegiate career that saw him as the most productive tight end in Syracuse history. He set new bests for receptions and yards by a player at the position after 141 catches for 1,970 yards across 28 games.
While he isn’t going to do the dirty work as a blocker early in his professional career, Gadsden should quickly establish himself as a target who will create mismatches and threaten defenses vertically.