The LA Chargers’ 2024 schedule has been a major focus, overshadowing rookie minicamp last week. Chargers fans got their first look at first-round pick Joe Alt and second-round pick Ladd McConkey, but it was third-round linebacker Junior Colson who made the strongest impression on Jim Harbaugh and his staff.
Colson’s familiarity with Harbaugh’s system at Michigan is already evident. According to the Chargers’ head coach, Colson is already calling plays on defense and directing his teammates on the field, demonstrating an uncommon level of poise and leadership for a rookie.
While Colson is making waves, another rookie defender stole the spotlight at minicamp—an undrafted free agent, outside linebacker Chris Collins, who has now earned an official roster spot. In a corresponding move, fellow OLB Brevin Allen was waived.
Collins played against Jim Harbaugh at Michigan and has some familiarity with Harbaugh and defensive coordinator Jesse Minter from his time in the Big Ten. After spending five years at North Carolina, Collins transferred to Minnesota for the 2023 season, where he helped the Golden Gophers win a bowl game and accumulated 86 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and an interception over his college career.
Standing at 6-5 and 255 pounds, Collins played primarily at defensive end for Minnesota, which is likely where he’ll play for the Chargers. He joins a competitive DE room that includes Khalil Mack, Joey Bosa, and Tuli Tuipulotu, with the recent addition of veteran Bud Dupree. Although making the 53-man roster will be challenging, Collins’ experience against Harbaugh and his impressive first impression give him a fighting chance. He will compete with players like Chris Rumph, Andrew Farmer II, Ty Shelby, and rookies Savion Jackson and Tre’mon Morris-Brash.
