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Chargers training camp report, Day 6: Movement in the WR competition

Chargers Training Camp Spotlight: KeAndre Lambert-Smith Emerges as a Key Piece in Revamped Offense

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — As the Los Angeles Chargers kicked off their 2025 training camp under the sweltering Southern California sun, all eyes were on the team's revamped wide receiver corps. With quarterback Justin Herbert entering his prime and a new offensive scheme under head coach Jim Harbaugh, the Chargers are looking to build a dynamic passing attack capable of challenging the AFC's elite. Amid the buzz, one name has quickly risen to the forefront: KeAndre Lambert-Smith, the speedy wideout acquired in a offseason trade that has already paid dividends in the early days of camp.

Lambert-Smith, a former standout at Penn State who transferred to Auburn for his final college season before entering the NFL, brings a unique blend of athleticism and route-running savvy to a Chargers team hungry for explosive playmakers. At 6-foot-1 and 190 pounds, he's not the biggest receiver on the roster, but his burst off the line and ability to create separation have made him an instant favorite in drills. During the first padded practice on Wednesday, Lambert-Smith hauled in a contested catch over the middle, drawing cheers from teammates and coaches alike. It's the kind of play that hints at his potential to become Herbert's go-to target in critical situations.

The journey to this point hasn't been straightforward for Lambert-Smith. Coming out of high school in Norfolk, Virginia, he was a highly touted recruit, choosing Penn State over offers from powerhouses like Alabama and Ohio State. In Happy Valley, he flashed potential early, recording over 500 receiving yards as a sophomore and earning a reputation for his deep-ball tracking. However, inconsistencies in the Nittany Lions' offense and a coaching change led to a dip in production, prompting his transfer to Auburn. There, under the tutelage of Hugh Freeze, Lambert-Smith rediscovered his form, amassing 800 yards and eight touchdowns in his senior year, showcasing the elusiveness that made him a draft darling.

The Chargers, fresh off a disappointing 2024 season marred by injuries and offensive line woes, saw Lambert-Smith as a perfect fit for their rebuild. Traded from the team that drafted him in the third round—the details of which involved a swap of mid-round picks—the move was part of general manager Joe Hortiz's aggressive approach to bolstering the skill positions. "We needed guys who could stretch the field and make plays after the catch," Hortiz said in a recent presser. "KeAndre checks all those boxes. He's got that dog in him, and we're excited to see him grow with Justin."

In camp, Lambert-Smith has wasted no time integrating into the offense. Paired with veterans like Joshua Palmer and the newly signed free agent DJ Chark, he's been rotating with the first-team unit, often lining up in the slot where his quickness can exploit mismatches. One standout moment came during 7-on-7 drills when Herbert lofted a perfect spiral down the sideline. Lambert-Smith, matched up against cornerback Asante Samuel Jr., used a subtle head fake to gain a step, then elevated for a one-handed grab that would have gone for a 40-yard gain. The play drew immediate praise from Harbaugh, who has emphasized physicality and precision in his first full camp with the team.

Teammates have been equally impressed. Herbert, known for his stoic demeanor, couldn't hide his enthusiasm after the session. "KeAndre's got great hands and even better instincts," the quarterback noted. "He's picking up the playbook fast, and it's fun throwing to someone who can make those adjustments on the fly." This chemistry is crucial for the Chargers, who ranked in the bottom half of the league in passing yards last season. With Herbert's arm strength and Lambert-Smith's speed—clocked at 4.42 in the 40-yard dash at the combine—the duo could form a lethal connection.

Beyond his on-field exploits, Lambert-Smith's work ethic has been a talking point. Arriving early to the team's facility each day, he's often seen studying film with offensive coordinator Greg Roman or working on footwork drills with position coach Sanjay Lal. This dedication stems from a blue-collar upbringing; his father was a high school coach, instilling in him the value of preparation. "I don't take anything for granted," Lambert-Smith shared in an exclusive interview. "Coming from where I did, you learn to grind. This is my shot, and I'm going to make the most of it."

Of course, training camp is about more than individual highlights—it's where team identities are forged. The Chargers' offense, under Roman's guidance, is shifting toward a balanced attack that incorporates play-action and motion to keep defenses guessing. Lambert-Smith fits seamlessly into this, often motioning across the formation to create pre-snap confusion. In one red-zone period, he ran a crisp corner route, shaking free for what would have been a touchdown if not for a diving breakup by safety Derwin James. Even in defeat, the play showcased his potential in high-stakes areas.

Defensively, the Chargers are using camp to test their revamped secondary against talents like Lambert-Smith. James, a perennial Pro Bowler, has taken on a mentorship role, offering tips after reps. "He's got that burst, man," James said. "It's making us better. Iron sharpens iron." This internal competition is vital as the Chargers aim to improve on last year's middling defensive performance, which saw them allow too many big plays through the air.

Looking ahead, Lambert-Smith's role could expand beyond just receiving. Coaches have experimented with him in the return game, where his vision and agility could add another dimension. Special teams coordinator Ryan Ficken praised his natural feel for the ball, hinting at punt return duties in preseason games. If he excels there, it could solidify his spot on the 53-man roster and potentially earn him All-Rookie honors.

Challenges remain, of course. Lambert-Smith is still adapting to the NFL's speed and physicality. A minor hamstring tweak earlier in the offseason delayed his ramp-up, but he's fully cleared now and showing no signs of rust. The wide receiver room is crowded, with young guns like Quentin Johnston pushing for snaps, meaning every rep counts. Yet, his poise under pressure—honed through big games at Penn State and Auburn—suggests he's ready for the leap.

As camp progresses, the Chargers' faithful are optimistic. With Herbert at the helm and playmakers like Lambert-Smith emerging, the team could surprise in a loaded AFC West. Division rivals like the Chiefs and Raiders have dominated headlines, but Los Angeles is quietly building something special. Lambert-Smith embodies that potential: a hungry talent eager to prove himself on the grand stage.

In the broader context of the Chargers' offseason, this camp represents a turning point. Harbaugh's influence is evident everywhere—from the grueling conditioning sessions to the emphasis on fundamentals. Players speak of a renewed energy, a far cry from the frustrations of previous regimes. Lambert-Smith, with his infectious enthusiasm, is a microcosm of that shift. "This feels different," he said. "We're not just talking about winning; we're putting in the work."

Fans attending open practices have caught glimpses of this transformation. The energy at the Jack Hammett Sports Complex is palpable, with cheers erupting for every big play. Lambert-Smith has already become a crowd favorite, signing autographs and engaging with supporters post-practice. It's a reminder that football is as much about connection as it is competition.

As the preseason slate approaches, all signs point to Lambert-Smith being a focal point. His ability to stretch the field could open up opportunities for running backs like Gus Edwards and the tight ends, creating a multifaceted offense. If he continues to shine, the Chargers might just have found their next star receiver.

In summary, while it's early, KeAndre Lambert-Smith's performance in training camp is turning heads and raising expectations. With his blend of speed, smarts, and determination, he's poised to make an immediate impact. The Chargers' 2025 season could hinge on such emerging talents, and if Lambert-Smith's trajectory holds, it might be one for the ages. As camp rolls on, the football world will be watching closely. (Word count: 1,128)

Read the Full The New York Times Article at:
[ https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6512140/2025/07/23/chargers-training-camp-keandre-lambert-smith/ ]