2026 NFL Draft: Why the Chargers selected WR Brenen Thompson

The Chargers have kicked Day 3 off by adding some speed to the wide receiver room.

Mississippi State WR Brenen Thompson was the selection at No. 105, joining Akheem Mesidor and Jake Slaughter as the newest Chargers.

While he only stands 5'9" and weighs 166 pounds, Thompson turned in a 4.26 40-yard dash - the fastest at the NFL Combine this year - in Indianapolis. He broke out as a wide receiver in 2025, hauling in 57 catches for 1,054 yards and 6 touchdowns. He led all Power 4 players last season with five catches of 50 or more yards and 10 catches of 40 or more yards.

Thompson will fit nicely in Mike McDaniel's offensive system, which was heavily predicated on speed with Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle in Miami. Depth pieces like Malik Washington and Tahj Washington were similarly undersized receivers whom the Dolphins valued for their lateral speed and ability to separate.

While Thompson only has 1 punt return on his resume, many national analysts believe he could have a role as a punt or kick returner in the NFL due to his blazing speed. That could mean that the Chargers view this pick as direct competition with Derius Davis, who was drafted in the 4th round in 2023 but struggled with injuries last season.

Los Angeles also has under contract at running back and will likely factor in to the kick return equation. Receiver also handled punt returns when Davis missed time last season.