The Chargers had to reinforce their defense end spot after releasing five-time Pro-Bowl EDGE Joey Bosa earlier this offseason.
Bringing back Khalil Mack and Bud Dupree, two of their top three EDGE rushers from last season, to help sack opposing QBs this season.
The team also drafted EDGE Kyle Kennard from South Carolina in the fourth round to help alleviate the loss of Bosa.
Damian Parson of Bleacher Report named the Chargers’ EDGE as a rookie with the most to gain.
“Kyle Kennard had a stellar 2024 season at South Carolina before declaring for the 2025 NFL draft. The 23-year-old finished the year with 10 sacks, six QB hits, 24 pressures and three forced fumbles. There is no pressure on him entering training camp, but he has plenty to gain with the right performance,” Parson wrote. “The Los Angeles Chargers have veteran edge-rushers ahead of Kennard for him to watch and learn from… but Kennard should not be far behind.”
“In training camp, his ability to disrupt the quarterback’s comfort in the pocket against their outstanding offensive tackle duo of Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt will help him climb the depth chart and pass-rush pecking order… the door should be open for Kennard, but a strong training camp will be paramount for his playing time.”
Kyle Kennard During College
GettyLos Angeles Chargers defensive end Kyle Kennard.
The former Gamecock logged 10 sacks in his fifth collegiate season. Before transferring to South Carolina for his final year, Kennard played four seasons at Georgia Tech, recording 12.5 sacks during his time there.
“The production speaks for itself. You don’t become SEC defensive player of the year or win the Nagurski Award if you’re not a really dominant player in that conference,” Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter said.
“[Kennard’s] walking into a room with two really strong veterans to learn from… Super excited to get him and excited to see the impact I think he’ll make for us.”
Kennard was asked after day 1 of rookie minicamp what he wanted to show coaches during training.
“Most importantly, I want to show that I am dependable,” Kennard said. “The X’s and O’s part will come as I’m here throughout my rookie season. But, for him to know that I’m going to be in the right place, do my job, communicate and be dependable to my teammates, that’s probably what I’m looking to show the most.”
Working Up
GettyLos Angeles Chargers defensive player Kyle Kennard.
Kyle Kennard has the opportunity to learn from Khalil Mack and Bud Dupree in his rookie season in Los Angeles.
Also ahead of Kennard is third-year EDGE rusher Tuli Tuipulotu, who had 8.5 sacks in his second year.
Mack and Dupree combined for 12 sacks in head coach Jim Harbaugh’s first season at the helm of the team.
As Parson mentioned, if Kennard can learn from his new coaches and teammates, he can make a major impact with the team.
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