Brenen Thompson may have been Chargers’ most necessary pick

The Los Angeles Chargers went into the NFL Draft knowing they needed to help quarterback Justin Herbert as much as possible.

That included selecting four offensive linemen that can possibly develop into one of his top guards, but it also meant getting a wide receiver that could help him take the top off of opposing defenses. That’s what the Chargers got in fourth-round wide receiver Brenen Thompson out of Mississippi State.

“A talented wide receiver corps gets a deep threat in Thompson. With a 4.26 40, Thompson was the fastest offensive player at the combine,” ESPN insider Matt Miller wrote.

“That speed showed during his Mississippi State career, as he led the SEC in receiving yards last season. The Chargers have possession receivers in Ladd McConkey and Tre’ Harris, and the hope is that Quentin Johnston will continue to develop in the final year of his rookie deal, but drafting Thompson gives them a true field-stretching talent who can loosen up coverages.”

Thompson may stand at only 5-9 and weigh 170 pounds, but he showcased his ability as one of the SEC’s top receivers in 2025. In his lone year at Mississippi State, Thompson had 57 grabs for 1,054 yards and six touchdowns.

Thompson was one of the top 100 players in his high school class of 2022. He committed to the University of Texas but struggled to see the field while he was in Austin. That led him to transfer to Oklahoma, where he also struggled to crack the depth chart. Once he got an opportunity to get legitimate playing time at Mississippi State, he was able to flourish.

It may take some time for Thompson to get those reps in the NFL, but he will be a speedy deep threat for any opposing defense that phases in this season.