Ladd McConkey's injury shouldn't slow him down after a record-breaking rookie season with the Chargers
Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey is entering his second season in the NFL. McConkey is coming off a record-setting rookie season, but could have an even better year in 2025.
McConkey, a 2024 second-round pick from the Georgia Bulldogs, has had extra time to build chemistry with Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert. The talented wide receiver should have an even better understanding of Los Angeles' offense in Year 2.
It won't be easy following up McConkey's record-setting rookie season. Last year, McConkey set the Chargers' all-time leading rookie receiver in receptions (82) and receiving yards (1,149). McConkey's outstanding regular season helped Los Angeles advance to the playoffs, where he set the NFL postseason rookie record for receiving yardage in a game with 197 yards in the Chargers' defeat to the Houston Texans.
McConkey along with the rest of Los Angeles' starters are not expected to play in the Chargers' preseason opener against the Detroit Lions on Thursday, July 31. McConkey has been "working through something minor" according to Chargers' head coach Jim Harbaugh. The second-year pass catcher missed practice on Tuesday ahead of the Hall of Fame Game.
ESPN NFL expert Mina Kimes is quite high on McConkey this year.
"I think he has the ceiling of being a top 10 receiver in the NFL," Kimes said. "He was a guy I actually feel like we didn't give enough credit during the season for how good he was."
Statistically, McConkey was already a top 10 receiver in yardage as a rookie. However, he's not typically viewed as a top-10 receiver in the NFL.
"I think he is a true three-level threat," Kimes added. "He's a true wide receiver one in my opinion, the offense can flow through him. The sky is the limit for Ladd McConkey."
McConkey can beat single man coverage with ease, but for now the Chargers just want to see him fully healthy ahead of their 2025 season. McConkey and Los Angeles have their regular season opener on Friday, Sept. 5 against the Kansas City Chiefs in Brazil.
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This article originally appeared on UGA Wire: Ladd McConkey's injury won't stop a strong season for the Chargers WR
Category: General Sports
