Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox listed each NFL team’s newest weapon by using factors like physical potential, proven production, scheme fit and projected role.
For the Chargers, Knox tabbed rookie wide receiver Josh Palmer as the team’s “most dangerous new weapon.”
While Palmer didn’t compile gaudy statistics in college—he never topped 500 receiving yards in a season—he was a four-year contributor with a polished skill set and impressive size (6’1″, 210 lbs).
Palmer shined at this year’s Senior Bowl where he matched up against other future NFL competitors.
While Palmer may not have the raw impact of additions like [Rashawn] Slater, his pro readiness could make him a dangerous complementary target from day one.
Palmer never produced eye-popping production at Tennessee due to the fact that he played alongside two current NFL wide receivers for two seasons and the team’s ongoing quarterback problems.
Palmer, the 6-foot-1 and 210 pounder, ran mostly vertical routes in the Vol’s offense and rarely got targeted because of it. On top of that, 31% of his targets were uncatchable.
However, when he was targeted with a catchable ball, Palmer shined against some elite college corners, including Jaycee Horn, Patrick Surtain II, Tyson Campbell, Eric Stokes and Kelvin Joseph.
Now on a team with a competent quarterback in Justin Herbert, Palmer is definitely in a position to be more productive in the NFL than he was in college.
In Year 1, he will be in the mix for snaps. Given the fact that offensive coordinator Joe Lombard goes through a lot of different personnel packages, Palmer will have his fair share of opportunities, with potential to grow into a large role.
With his ability to separate at all levels of the field, especially vertically, Palmer could quickly become one of Herbert’s go-to targets this upcoming season and beyond.