The Chargers selected Syracuse TE Oronde Gadsden II with the 165th pick of the 2025 NFL Draft. The son of the former Dolphins WR, Gadsden is the ultimate tweener prospect. The 6’5, 243-pounder is too big to be a WR, but not quite built enough to be an in-line TE. But that could make him a fantasy cheat code if he’s listed as a TE but plays mostly in the slot. That’s what he did at Syracuse, running 65% of his routes from the slot over four seasons. Gadsden broke out as a sophomore in 2022, leading the Orange in catches (61), receiving yards (966), and TDs (6). After missing all but two games in 2023 with a Lisfranc injury to right foot, Gadsden returned for a similarly productive 2024: 73 receptions, 934 yards, and seven TDs. He ranked sixth in yards per route and fourth in Pro Football Focus receiving grade among the 21 TEs at the Combine. With 4.6 speed, Gadsden regularly worked downfield, recording 16 grabs of 20+ yards last year. He’s underwhelming after the catch (career 3.7 YAC/reception) and might struggle to hold up as a blocker in the NFL. But Gadsden’s pass-catching skill set makes him an intriguing sleeper in this TE class.
Gadsden II played almost primarily slot at Syracuse, making him a WR playing TE
The Chargers certainly have a need at the TE position, one of the thinnest on their roster
Gadsden should have an opportunity to step in and contribute, even as a fifth-round pick.
Gadsden II offers WR type upside with a TE designation
In TE Premium leagues, he is worth taking a shot on in rookie drafts.
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