Oronde Gadsden is expected to have a larger role in the Chargers' offense after a limited appearance in the team's Week 1 loss to the Cardinals. Offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel said the team plans to make greater use of the second-year tight end's abilities.
McDaniel said Gadsden's involvement can vary depending on how a game develops, but he expects the tight end to receive more opportunities unless circumstances change during a contest.
Gadsden was among five players who caught passes from Justin Herbert in Week 1. He played 10 offensive snaps, or 18% of the team's total, but caught both passes thrown his way for 32 yards. His longest reception covered 26 yards.
David Njoku and Ladd McConkey led the Chargers with five receptions apiece in the game. Gadsden was drafted 165th overall in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
During his rookie season, Gadsden played 62% of the Chargers' offensive snaps. He finished that campaign with 49 catches for 664 yards and three touchdowns in 15 games, including seven starts. Further details about his role in upcoming games were not provided.
