The 2026 NFL Draft has concluded, and while the Los Angeles Chargers made a few selections during Day 3, the real focus shifts to the undrafted free agent (UDFA) period. The Chargers wasted no time, signing an impressive group of 18 UDFAs, aiming to uncover hidden gems who can contribute to the team's future success.
Every fan loves a UDFA success story. Players like Keenan Allen and Antonio Gates established the Chargers as a landlord for overlooked talent, while more recent contributors such as Michael Davis have further proven the viability of the undrafted pipeline. Consistently among the league's most aggressive teams in free agency, the Chargers continue to invest in raw talent following the draft, and 2026 is no exception.
Here is a comprehensive overview of the 18 players the Chargers signed, featuring scouting notes and what each brings to the roster.
Offensive Firepower
Quarterback: Marcus Thigpen -- Georgia State
Thigpen emerged as a productive dual-threat quarterback in the Sun Belt Conference over the past three seasons. He passed for 9,200 yards with 67 touchdowns, adding 1,800 rushing yards and 22 rushing scores. While his arm strength is average, his ability to extend plays and display strong football IQ makes him an intriguing developmental prospect. With Justin Herbert set as the starter and Trey Lance providing veteran depth, Thigpen's immediate role is likely competing for a practice squad spot.
Running Back: Deon Pritchett -- Cincinnati
Pritchett is a compact, downhill runner who gained 1,400 rushing yards and scored 14 touchdowns his senior year. Though lacking elite speed, he runs with excellent pad level and natural balance through contact. The Chargers' backfield features an established lead back but could use depth, particularly on special teams, where Pritchett can showcase his value. Additionally, his 43 career receptions give him third-down viability.
Wide Receiver: Jalen Mosley -- Texas Tech
Mosley, standing 6-foot-3 and 215 pounds, is a big-bodied receiver who excelled at contested catches in the Big 12. He posted consecutive 800-yard seasons and finished his college career with 18 touchdowns. His route tree is somewhat limited, primarily featuring go routes, slants, and back-shoulder fades, but his physical tools warrant further development. The Chargers' receiving corps is competitive, but Mosley could carve out a red-zone threat role.
Wide Receiver: Kendall Hamilton -- Tulane
Hamilton is a 5-foot-11, 180-pound speedster who averaged 18.4 yards per reception over his last two seasons. His game mostly consists of deep routes and jet sweeps, a specialized but valuable niche. Likely to attract the special teams coordinator's attention as a returner, Hamilton's clearest path to the 53-man roster lies in his kick and punt return ability.
Wide Receiver: Travis Reed -- San Jose State
A shifty slot receiver with reliable hands and smooth route running, Reed amassed 78 catches for 1,100 yards last season. Though lacking standout size or speed, he projects as a possession receiver who could earn a rotational role if durable. He offers a safe, technically sound option behind the starters.
Tight End: Brandon Hicks -- South Carolina
Hicks is a classic Y tight end at 6-foot-5 and 250 pounds, balancing pass-catching ability with willing blocking. With 550 yards and six touchdowns last season, he was considered a Day 3 prospect by many analysts. The Chargers have invested draft capital at tight end in recent years, but Hicks brings a distinct skill set with more emphasis on inline blocking and traditional tight end duties, which could help him secure a roster spot if he quickly learns the offense.
Reinforcements in the Trenches
Offensive Tackle: Marcus White -- Northern Iowa
White, a small-school standout, occupies the prototypical tackle frame at 6-foot-7 and 315 pounds. A four-year starter at left tackle for Northern Iowa, he allowed zero sacks over his final 14 games. Though the jump to NFL edge rushers is considerable, his length, size, and quick feet provide a solid developmental profile to become a swing tackle after seasoning on the practice squad.
Interior Offensive Lineman: Derek Finley -- Louisville
Finley has experience playing both guard and center, showing solid technique and understanding of stunts. Likely best suited to center, where his football IQ can offset average athleticism, Finley's ability to call protections could make him a valued depth piece. He projects as a practice squad candidate initially.
Interior Offensive Lineman: Chris Neal -- Georgia Tech
Neal is a formidable run-blocker at 6-foot-4, 330 pounds who lacks the lateral quickness to consistently handle pass rush inside. He could contribute in short-yardage power run formations as a backup guard. Despite limitations in agility, Neal's run-game prowess is clear.
Defensive End: Tyrone "Tank" Gardner -- Ole Miss
Gardner compensates for his undersized 6-foot-1, 255-pound frame with explosiveness and relentless motor. He led the SEC in pressures per snap but his sack numbers lagged behind. His quick first step and pass-rush upside give him a realistic role in sub-packages and special teams.
Defensive Tackle: Isaiah Morgan -- UCF
Morgan, standing 6-foot-3 and 305 pounds, is known for high motor and stout run defense. While not a strong pass-rush interior disruptor, his assignment-sound play ensures he can hold the point of attack. Morgan fits well as a developmental rotational player focused on run defense.
Defensive Backs and Linebackers
Linebacker: Micah Sims -- Wisconsin
Sims is a physical, instinctive linebacker excelling in run defense. Though lacking sideline-to-sideline speed and coverage skills, he compensates with reliable tackling and play recognition. His special teams potential may be the key to making the roster.
Linebacker: DeAngelo Powell -- Appalachian State
Powell boasts impressive athleticism with a 4.55-second 40-yard dash and strong agility testing. While he shows inconsistency in tackles, his physical traits suggest a high ceiling. He remains a developmental project with upside.
Cornerback: Jordan Rhodes -- Florida
Rhodes is a 6-foot-2 press-man corner with length and ball skills, including nine career interceptions. He struggles with quickness and transitions, needing to refine zone coverage discipline. His special teams potential and physical traits make him an intriguing developmental candidate.
Cornerback: Kaleb Johnson -- Fresno State
Johnson plays with solid instincts and technique, best suited for the slot. Though not elite in speed, his anticipation and positioning have led to solid pass breakups. He could challenge for a backup slot corner role.
Safety: Malik Flowers -- LSU
Flowers brings versatility, having played both safety and nickel roles. Best near the box, he offers physical run support and coverage of tight ends. His average range limits him as a centerfielder, but his positional flexibility is valued.
Safety: Darius Shaw -- Texas A&M
A rangy safety known for seven interceptions over two seasons, Shaw has the frame to add weight for box play. He projects as a developmental player with potential kick and punt coverage contributions.
Special Teams Wild Card
Kicker: Ryan Gordon -- Ohio State
Gordon was a four-year starter known for accuracy, converting 85% of his field goals, including several from beyond 50 yards. While the Chargers have an established kicker, Gordon's strong resume warrants camp competition.
Looking Ahead
The Chargers' 18-player UDFA class exemplifies a commitment to developing raw talent with size, speed, and diverse skill sets. Historically, one or two undrafted players make the 53-man roster annually, with several others joining the practice squad.
Standouts to monitor in training camp include tight end Brandon Hicks, offensive tackle Marcus White, and cornerback Jordan Rhodes. Wide receiver Jalen Mosley and linebacker Micah Sims also have clearer paths through special teams and positional needs.
General manager Joe Hortiz and the coaching staff have prioritized traits over polish, confident that the Chargers' developmental environment will unlock these players' potential.
While UDFAs rarely headline draft weekend, every year the league witnesses undrafted players rise to prominence. In a league built on depth and roster churn, this Chargers class represents the next wave of hopeful contributors.
Fans should keep a close eye on the tight end and cornerback competitions come training camp, where the fight for roster spots will heat up. The Chargers' future depth may well be shaped by these 18 players in the months ahead.
