Los Angeles Chargers rookie shines in debut with team

The Los Angeles Chargers got Ladd McConkey on the field for the first time this preseason, but another of the team's draft picks made the biggest impression.

McConkey made his first catch in a Chargers uniform but Kimani Vidal, a running back the team selected in the sixth round, looked terrific in limited action. He led the team with 11 carries for 49 yards and added two receptions for eight yards.

He looked elusive and powerful simultaneously and appears to be a player who can really pack a punch for this offense in 2024.

Vidal saw the field before Jaret Patterson and Isaiah Spiller in this game, bringing back the thought that he is the team's true No. 3 running back.

Kimani Vidal the most encouraging part of loss to Rams

The Chargers fell to 0-2 in the preseason and have only scored 12 points in two games following a 13-9 loss in the 'Battle of L.A.'.

Vidal was considered a late-round gem when the Chargers drafted him in the sixth round back in April. He is the all-time leading rusher in the history of Troy University, but his small stature (5-foot-8) led to him being overlooked by many teams in the draft process.

Now, the Chargers seem to have found their running back of the future.

MORE CHARGERS NEWS

Chargers players who need to step up in 'Battle of L.A.'

Could Chargers trade Quentin Johnston?

Chargers connected to three QBs via trade