Oronde Gadsden II is an emerging NFL talent, currently playing as a tight end for the Los Angeles Chargers. Known for his versatility, athleticism, and football pedigree, Gadsden has quickly made a name for himself as a hybrid player capable of excelling at both receiver and tight end positions.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Oronde Gadsden II |
| Date of Birth | June 25, 2003 (Age 22) |
| Place of Birth | Miramar, Florida, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height / Weight | 6’4” / 220 lbs |
| Position | Tight End / Wide Receiver |
| Current Team | Los Angeles Chargers (NFL) |
| College | Syracuse University |
| NFL Draft | 2025, 5th Round |
| Net Worth | $978,000 (2025) |
| Nickname | None widely reported |
Early Life and Family
Oronde Gadsden II was born in Miramar, Florida, into a family with strong football ties. His father, Oronde Gadsden, was a standout NFL wide receiver, and his mother, Bianke Gadsden, along with his sister, provided a supportive environment. Growing up in South Florida, Gadsden was exposed to competitive football from an early age, honing his skills alongside future NFL peers like Patrick Surtain II.
He attended American Heritage High School, where he excelled in football, helping his team to two state championships, and built the work ethic and discipline that would define his career.
College Career
Syracuse University
Gadsden committed to Syracuse University as a three-star wide receiver in the 2021 recruiting class. His college career highlights include:
- Freshman Year (2021): Limited action due to injury but began learning the offensive system.
- Sophomore Year (2022): Breakout season with 61 receptions, 969 yards, and six touchdowns, earning First-Team All-ACC honors.
- Position Switch: Transitioned to tight end, showcasing adaptability and versatility.
- 2023 Season: Limited to two games due to a Lisfranc injury.
- 2024 Season: Returned strong with First-Team All-ACC and AP Third-Team All-American honors, setting Syracuse records for catches and yards by a tight end.
Gadsden’s college career established him as a hybrid threat capable of impacting both the passing and blocking game.
NFL Career
Los Angeles Chargers (2025–Present)
Drafted in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Gadsden quickly made an impact:
- Rookie Season: Gaining snaps and becoming a reliable target for Justin Herbert.
- Week 7 Highlight: Recorded seven catches for 164 yards and his first NFL touchdown against the Colts.
- Usage Rate: Increased route participation from 28% in Week 3 to 77% by Weeks 6 and 7, signaling trust from coaching staff.
Analysts praise him as a “sleeper” and “hidden gem,” with potential to redefine the tight end role in the NFL.
Playing Style
Gadsden is known for:
- Versatility: Ability to line up as a wide receiver or tight end.
- Athleticism: Explosive speed and agility for mismatches against defenders.
- Football IQ: Quick adaptation to position changes and offensive schemes.
- Physicality: Effective blocker and reliable in contested catches.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
As of 2025, Oronde Gadsden II’s net worth is estimated at $978,000, sourced from:
- NFL Contract: Four-year rookie deal worth $4.57 million, including an $840,000 base salary and signing bonus.
- Endorsements: NIL deals with CeraVE Skincare and Apex Entertainment.
His lifestyle reflects a focus on professional development, training, and football performance, avoiding extravagance while investing in his athletic growth.
Personal Life
Gadsden maintains a private personal life, with no public information on romantic relationships or children. He credits his parents and family support for his success and emphasizes focus on football while nurturing close family bonds.
Awards and Achievements
- First-Team All-ACC: 2022, 2024
- AP Third-Team All-American: 2024
- Syracuse Record Holder: Most catches and yards by a tight end
- NFL Draft: 5th Round pick by Los Angeles Chargers (2025)
Interesting Facts
- Comes from a football legacy, following his father’s NFL footsteps.
- Switched positions in college from wide receiver to tight end.
- Achieved two state championships in high school.
- Known for resilience after college injuries and adaptability on the field.
Future Prospects
Gadsden’s rookie season momentum suggests a bright future in the NFL. With the ability to play multiple positions and a growing rapport with Justin Herbert, he is poised to become a key offensive weapon for the Chargers while redefining the modern hybrid tight end role.
