Oronde Gadsden II, the rookie tight end for the Los Angeles Chargers, delivered an impressive performance during the team’s 37-10 victory against the Minnesota Vikings. On Sunday, Gadsden helped prove his point by scoring a touchdown in the first quarter and displaying his all-around skills. He contributed a big output offensively on the day with a career-high five receptions for 77 yards.
Gadsden’s touchdown was one for the highlight reel as he smartly swiveled on defender Joshua Metellus, completing an 8-yard catch in the end zone. His excitement after the touchdown caused an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty on his celebration when he decided to yell in Metellus’ face. Even with the penalty, Gadsden’s influence on the game was easily apparent.
The budding star tight end is one of the hottest new waiver prospects in the league right now. In the previous week, he had already established a notable performance with seven catches for 164 yards and a touchdown, marking one of the best games by a rookie tight end in NFL history. Over two games, Gadsden amassed 240 receiving yards and two touchdowns, a feat not achieved by a rookie tight end since Mike Ditka in 1961.
Head coach Jim Harbaugh praised Gadsden’s maturity on the field, stating, “The thing that strikes me the most is he plays like he’s been playing in the NFL for two, three, four years. He seems like a four-year, five-year player to me.”
Gadsden’s road to this coming-out party hasn’t come without its hurdles. He was frustrated, and understandably so, as he didn’t suit up for each of the first two games of the season. The coaches sensed the start of his discontent. They liked his ambition to master the offense sooner than later and figure out ways he can contribute.
The Chargers have been hardpressed to find productive tight ends in recent years. Gadsden’s rise to prominence just might be what these folks are looking for. He’s quickly establishing himself as a vital cog in their offensive gameplan. His health is the biggest concern, but his standout performances indicate he can be a trusty option for Herbert in the future.
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