one-hander??? more like one-palmer pic.twitter.com/3smoLoLUNa
Buy Chargers Tickets— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) August 1, 2023
Heading into the season, the Chargers’ wide receiver room is headlined by veterans Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, and first-round pick Quentin Johnston, while third-year Josh Palmer has been overshadowed by them.
During Tuesday’s practice, Palmer made a spectacular play with a leaping, one-handed catch with Asante Samuel Jr. in coverage in a one-on-one drill, reminding everyone that he’s just as important to the positional group.
“We feel like Josh is an elite player,” Brandon Staley said. “Our entire coaching staff will tell you the same. Through two years, he’s done a lot for us. Last year, over 70 catches. He’s a very complete receiver. You can line him up anywhere. He’s outstanding in the release game. He’s very strong.”
Last season, Los Angeles spent a good chunk of time without Allen and Williams due to their respective injuries. That led to Justin Herbert relying on other targets. Palmer seized his opportunities.
Palmer finished with 72 receptions for 769 yards. Weeks 9 and 11 were his most prominent games, amassing 106 receiving yards in each contest. He ended up establishing himself as a reliable target for Herbert.
“There’s a trust factor,” Staley said. “Justin will wait for him. Justin now knows where he can hit Josh in that sweet spot. Josh is a very, very complete player and he is a weapon and we’re excited to have him.”
Despite being No. 4 on the depth chart after the pick of Johnston, Palmer is not phased and he’s eager to be a significant contributor when his name is called this season.
“I feel like he’s got the same motivation,” Williams said. “Just to be in this league, you’ve got to be motivated. Show up every day, put the work in if you want to stay in this league. So, I feel like he’s always been motivated.”
Palmer’s target share will likely take a slight dip. Still, he is one injury away from resuming a more prominent role. Looking beyond 2023, if Allen or Williams isn’t back, Palmer should be a starter.
