3 Chargers Rookies Who Won't Make the 53-Man Roster

2. Brenden Rice 

Chargers fans were excited to see the name Brenden Rice called on draft day as he’s the son of NFL great and Hall of Famer Jerry Rice.

The younger Rice shockingly fell to the seventh round after having a solid 2023 season, playing alongside No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams. The former USC Trojans wide receiver recorded 45 receptions for 791 and 12 touchdowns.

The 22-year-old wide receiver was known for creating big plays in the passing game in Lincoln Riley’s offense but has failed to do that thus far with the Chargers. Rice hasn't registered a catch through the first two preseason games, which is almost similar to Cornelius Johnson.

The rookie wide receiver faces an uphill climb to make the 53-man roster as the Chargers are likely set with their top-five wideouts. Therefore, that potentially leaves Rice, Johnson, Fehoko, and Jaylen Johnson competing for 1 or 2 spots at wide receiver.

The odds aren’t on Rice’s side to make the 53-man roster, but he and Johnson could be great practice squad candidates.

The former USC wide receiver has already made a good impression on veteran Joshua Palmer, who likes Rice’s competitiveness and willingness to get better as a player. If Rice’s teammates can see his work ethic on the field, Harbaugh likely recognizes it too.