Gadsden Set for Bigger Role as Chargers Lose Two Tight Ends to IR
The short version
- The Chargers are 0-2 after two home games to open the season.
- Tight ends Charlie Kolar and David Njoku are on injured reserve until at least Week 6.
- Oronde Gadsden is the only active tight end on the roster.
- Gadsden has four catches for 50 yards and a touchdown this season.
- The Chargers rank 22nd in total offense and average 14 points per game.
With Charlie Kolar and David Njoku on injured reserve, Oronde Gadsden is the lone active tight end for the 0-2 Chargers.
The Los Angeles Chargers sit at 0-2 after opening the season with two home games against teams expected to finish near the bottom of the league. They are one of eight teams still winless through two weeks.
Injuries have added to the trouble. Tight ends Charlie Kolar and David Njoku were placed on injured reserve, leaving second-year tight end Oronde Gadsden as the only active player at the position. Both sidelined players are out until at least Week 6, though the team could sign reinforcements before its Week 3 game.
Head coach Jim Harbaugh voiced support for Gadsden, saying he has a lot of confidence in his game and in the many things he does well. Offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel said last week that he expects Gadsden to be more involved going forward.
Gadsden has four receptions for 50 yards this season, including a touchdown against the Raiders. The Chargers' offense has struggled, averaging 14 points per game and ranking 22th in total offense, giving the young tight end a chance to become a dependable target for quarterback Justin Herbert.