The Chargers finished their first week of training camp on Saturday and are now set to begin the real phase on Monday, as the team will be in full pads.
Before we move on to Week 2, here’s a look at the players that helped themselves and those whose stock may have taken a dip.
Stock Up
WR Tyron Johnson: Looking to pick up where he left off last season, Johnson has built a solid rapport with quarterback Justin Herbert in the early going of camp, consistently getting open with his speed and catching everything that has been thrown his way, especially in the deep parts of the field.
WR Josh Palmer: Johnson hasn’t been the only one who’s generating attention as the third wideout. Palmer, the third round pick, raised eyebrows, showing the ability to create separation with sound route-running and other attributes to his game like tracking and leaping ability, body control and strong hands.
TE Jared Cook: Herbert enjoyed throwing to Hunter Henry last season and even though he’s no longer around, his replacement has already built a strong connection with the signal-caller. Herbert found Cook on multiple occasions, a few of which ended in six.
LB Kyzir White: Yet to be given a fair shot, White showed glimpses of his true play-making ability in the roles he has in Brandon Staley’s defense. He made a handful of plays against the run and pass, including a few passes defensed and an interception that he took back for a touchdown. At the moment, White has a slight leg up over Drue Tranquill.
DB Mark Webb: The chances of seventh round picks standing out are slimmer than most, but Webb has been defying the odds. Seen as special teams being the only way of making the roster, Webb has proven he’s capable of making an impact on defense in his rookie season, notching the team’s first interception and quickly grasping the variety of roles he’s been playing; safety, Star and Money.
Stock Down
QB Easton Stick: Hoping to generate consideration for at least a spot on the practice squad, Stick did not do much to move the needle. Struggling to find his groove, he threw a pair of pick sixes early on. Now it will only be more difficult to stick around, as the team signed rookie K.J. Costello to offer competition.
WR Mike Williams: Auditioning for a contract extension this season, Williams is hoping to have a big season. But early on, he did not do too much to rave about. Not only have Keenan Allen, Johnson and Palmer earned the spotlight at the position thus far, Williams had his fair share of drops when targeted.
RBs Joshua Kelley & Larry Rountree III: The day before the start of training camp Justin Jackson was placed on the Reserve/COVID-19 list. But only a day had gone by until Jackson was back at practice. Upon returning, he and Austin Ekeler got the bulk of the workload. Kelley and Rountree will now look to show their worths as we get into the thick of the audition for the second running back spot.
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