Chargers edge defender Chris Rumph II flashed in his limited opportunities in his rookie season.
Rumph, the 2021 fourth-round pick, played 176 snaps, which he turned into 19 tackles, four quarterback pressures, two hits, and one sack.
Rumph showed off athleticism, lateral quickness, effort and range. However, his lean frame and lack of play strength led to him being engulfed at the point of attack by blockers far more often than not.
That is why Rumph prioritized the weight room and his nutrition to get bigger and stronger this offseason.
Adding weight and strength was essential for Chris Rumph II this offseason.
Joey Bosa said Rumph is not a string bean anymore, he’s an ‘asparagus stalk.’
Rumph is currently listed at 244 pounds, per the team’s website. pic.twitter.com/rNqvWKYviF
— Gavino Borquez (@GavinoBorquez) July 29, 2022
“He’s not a string bean anymore, he’s an asparagus stalk now,” Joey Bosa said on Rumph. “He’s gained some size and some strength. I think he’s going to be a big part of our defense and we’re going to need him.”
Entering the league, Rumph was 235 pounds, but on the team’s website, he’s now listed as 244 pounds.
In Year 2, Rumph will serve as a rotational piece behind Bosa and Khalil Mack while continuing to make the majority of his money on special teams.
With the additional weight and strength, the various pressure packages, and his athletic skillset, expect an uptick in production from Rumph.