Chargers sign WR Ladd McConkey, their 2nd-round draft pick

The Chargers on Wednesday signed wide receiver Ladd McConkey, locking up their second-round pick in the NFL draft. McConkey was the ninth and final member of the Chargers’ 2024 draft class to sign a contract, putting pen to paper after the completion of minicamp last week.

McConkey, selected 34th overall last month, was a member of the University of Georgia’s national championship team in 2022. Overall, in three seasons at Georgia, he caught 119 passes for 1,687 yards and 14 touchdowns. He established himself as one of the nation’s top route-runners during his collegiate career.

It’s expected that McConkey will challenge to become one of quarterback Justin Herbert’s top targets when training camp begins late next month. The Chargers traded Keenan Allen and released Mike Williams, their top two wide receivers, during the offseason in order to become salary cap compliant.

McConkey, fellow draft pick Brenden Rice (USC) along with Joshua Palmer, Quentin Johnston and Derius Davis are likely to be the top contenders as replacements for Allen and Williams in Coach Jim Harbaugh’s offense. Herbert acknowledged last week the absence of Allen and Williams will be great.

“They are two of the best to ever do it,” Herbert said of Allen and Williams. “Two great teammates, friends, competitors. It’s tough to replace guys like that just because there are not many like them. (But) I feel really comfortable with the (new) group that we have. They’ve stepped up. They’ve done a great job picking up this offense and going out there and competing. I know we don’t have pads on or anything like that, but I love the way they attack the day, practice, weights, film.

“That receiver group is special. I’m looking forward to throwing them the ball.”