The Chargers became the first NFL team to open training camp this weekend, with rookies scheduled to report – but second-round pick Tre Harris was notably absent. Selected 55th overall, Harris has yet to sign his rookie contract, part of a broader standoff affecting the entire second round. Just two of the 32 second-rounders have signed deals so far, and both contracts were fully guaranteed – marking a significant shift under the rookie wage scale established by the 2011 collective bargaining agreement. It’s now believed that all unsigned second-round picks are seeking fully guaranteed deals, a precedent that could reshape rookie contracts going forward.

While the holdup isn’t exclusive to Harris, his absence could have an impact on the Chargers’ depth chart. With the rookie sidelined, 2023 first-rounder Quentin Johnston  – still just 23, and entering his third season – now has a clearer path to retaining a starting role.

This also opens up opportunity for Mike Williams, who rejoined the team on a modest one-year, $3 million deal. Now 31, Williams will need to prove he still has something left in the tank after a disappointing 2024 campaign in which he totaled just 298 yards. This receiver room remains wide open – and for now, one of its key additions is missing.

Author: Pat Mitchell(@PatMitchellFF)