This episode of Bleav in Chargers Matt " Money" Smith and Lorenzo Neal break down the Chargers’ preseason performance, focusing on standout players, depth across the roster, and the tough decisions the coaches will face when cutting down to the 53-man roster. They highlight emerging talents on defense and special teams, discuss key injuries (including Rashawn Slater), and what it all means for the Chargers’ outlook going into the regular season.
01:00 Lorenzo’s appearance on another podcast with Julian Edelman
02:30 Caleb Murphy’s rise as a potential fourth edge rusher
05:45 Chargers’ impressive depth and undrafted free agents making splash plays
08:00 Defensive backs making back-to-back pick sixes
12:20 Standout performances from pass rushers and Jamaree Caldwell
16:00 The importance and leadership of safety Tony Jefferson
22:00 Spotlight on Marlo Wax, standout linebacker performance
27:30 Battle for the running back positions and Najee Harris’ injury
32:00 Special teams battles, Del'shawn Phillips, and depth at linebacker
34:30 Rashawn Slater’s injury and reshuffling the offensive line
39:00 Possibility of trades or additions to offensive line depth40:45 Recap: position battles, quarterback backup competition, overall camp competitive spirit

💰 Presented by FanDuel https://sportsbook.fanduel.com/

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🎸 Music by: youtube.com/@PrestynSmithMusic

On this episode of Bleav in Chargers, Matt 'Money' Smith and Lorenzo Neal discuss the exciting news of Keenan Allen’s return to the Chargers after his stint with the Bears. They dive into what Allen brings to the team as a veteran receiver and break down how his experience and route-running abilities will complement the young talent in the wide receiver room. They talk about the impact on the offense, questions about Allen’s injury history, and how the coaching staff will integrate both him and second-year receiver Ladd McConkey, especially given both excel in the slot. They also analyze the team’s current roster construction, positional battles, and the challenges on the offensive line, with particular focus on the center and guard spots.

[00:02:32] – Keenan Allen’s return to the Chargers

[00:03:09] – Keenan Allen’s career trajectory and current potential

[00:05:09] – Mike Williams retirement and impact on receiver room

[00:05:40] – Talent and injuries at Chargers training camp

[00:07:47] – Division competition and urgency for certainty at WR

[00:08:38] – Roles of younger wide receivers and veteran presence

[00:11:06] – Offensive formations and Keenan/Ladd usage

[00:11:56] – Managing Keenan Allen’s workload

[00:14:08] – Rookie readiness and responsibilities

[00:15:50] – Rookies and special teams contributions

[00:17:44] – Keenan Allen’s contract details and leadership expectations

[00:19:48] – Gameday active WRs and roster implications of Keenan’s signing

[00:21:30] – Special teams and who gets cut from roster

[00:22:23] – Need for veteran steadiness amid uncertainty

[00:23:17] – Chargers offensive line changes and questions

[00:25:27] – O-line personnel decisions and analysis

[00:28:23] – Importance of O-line, KC/DEN/LV defensive pressure

[00:29:52] – Center/guard importance and QB pocket movement

[00:30:46] – Rookie running backs, Omarion Hampton

[00:31:37] – Chargers offensive line run blocking strengths

[00:32:31] – Offensive line, WR releases, run game complementing weaknesses

[00:34:30] – Running game impact on 3rd downs and outlook for 2025

[00:35:39] – Early down success, running game, and playoff caliber football

[00:36:36] – Red zone issues, need for improvement

[00:40:12] – Defensive line depth and rotations post free agency

[00:42:47] – DL coaches impact,

[00:43:25] – AFC West strength of schedule and Chargers hype

[00:46:01] – Final roster cut logic and WR competition

[00:47:26] – Importance of hot division start, Keenan’s impact

[00:48:11] – Keenan’s career Charger receptions milestone

💰 Presented by FanDuel https://sportsbook.fanduel.com/
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🎸 Music by: youtube.com/@PrestynSmithMusic

The episode kicks off with excitement over a new FanDuel partnership and dives right into the Chargers’ preseason win in Canton. The hosts discuss Jim Harbaugh’s impact on the team, focusing on the strong organization, staff investments, and immediate on-field results. They highlight the defensive line’s dominance, standout performances from both rookies Reed) and veterans , and emerging depth across running back and wide receiver groups. The show also touches on the upcoming Hall of Fame ceremony honoring Antonio Gates, with guest Arthur Hightower sharing his perspective on Chargers history and culture. The hosts finish with optimism about the Chargers’ future, noting how team depth could be key in a tough division.

00:00:15 — Intro & FanDuel Partnership: Hosts express excitement about the sponsorship. - 00:01:00 — Chargers Win Preseason Game: Recap of the game and the "always compete" mantra. - 00:02:19 — Harbaugh’s Team Preparation: Comparing Chargers’ organization to the Lions; special teams highlighted. - 00:05:12 — Staff Decisions: Importance of leadership and recent struggles. - 00:06:11 — Investment in Coaching: Financial commitment to key coaching hires mentioned. - 00:07:27 — Defensive Line Dominance: Analysis of the Chargers’ interior line performance. - 00:10:09 — Veterans & Standout Plays: Focus on Tony Jefferson and team dynamics. - 00:13:14 — Rookies Making an Impact: Highlighting undrafted rookie Nico Reed's progress. - 00:19:23 — Roster Depth: Discussion on team depth and its impact on injuries. - 00:23:29 — Running Back Battle: Recap of running back performances and competition. - 00:27:04 — Veteran Leadership: Importance of experienced players mentoring younger ones. - 00:28:11 — Trey Lance's Development: Support for Lance’s growth as a backup QB. - 00:32:06 — Upcoming Challenges: Looking ahead to the next preseason game against the Saints. - 00:35:33 — Hall of Fame Focus: Preview of Antonio Gates’ induction. - 00:43:32 — Guest Perspective: Arthur Hightower discusses Chargers history and rookies. - 00:46:24 — Fullback Discussion: Lack of fullbacks in the Hall of Fame, spotlight on Lorenzo Neal.

In this episode of Bleav in Chargers, hosts Matt "Money" Smith and Lorenzo Neal dive into the latest updates from Chargers training camp. They recount Matt’s recent trip to San Diego, where fan excitement remained high despite the team's move. The discussion highlights standout moments and players from the first padded practices, including impressive performances by Khalil Mack, Trey Harris, Oronde Gadsen and Ladd McConkey They break down position battles, especially at wide receiver and the offensive line, expressing optimism about the new additions but also note O-line and Zion Johnson’s transition to center. They touch on the running back competition, rookie readiness, and what to expect from the team’s defense with changes in the front line. The hosts also discuss the upcoming Hall of Fame game, share fun training camp anecdotes, and spotlight the emotional retirement of Philip Rivers.

☕️ To Purchase the MUG : https://shop.bleav.com/product/bleav-in-chargers-mug/ 🎸 https://www.youtube.com/@PrestynSmithMusic
00:04:57 Training Camp in San Diego
Time in San Diego, seeing Chargers fans, jerseys, and fan interactions
00:06:54- Chargers Moving/Harbaugh’s San Diego Reception

• Discussing Chargers’ legacy in San Diego
• Huge fan turnout despite the team leaving; estimated 3,500+ people
  00:08:18 - Chargers Training Camp Standouts & Practice Recap
• X’s and O’s: Recap of first padded practices, standout players (Khalil Mack, Trey Harris)
• Young WRs making an impression (Keandre Lambert Smith, Trey Harris)
  00:13:04-Tight End Room & Rookie Contracts
• Discussion of new tight ends
• Greg Roman’s philosophy on integrating rookies
• Praise for Lad McConkey, overall WR group development, and Quentin Johnston ups and downs
  00:16:58 - Johnston Criticism
• The challenge of media and fan perceptions impacting Quentin Johnston
  00:19:28 - 00:22:41] Comparing WRs & Skill Sets
• Analysis of receiver traits: McConkey, Johnston, Smith, Harris
  00:24:16 Roster Improvements & Jesse Minter’s Defense
• Evaluation of position groups: TE, RB, WR, and skepticism about OL
  00:24:16- Offensive Line Concerns & Position Battles
• Discussion of specific players and moves: Zion Johnson trials at center and guard
  00:29:09 - Defensive Line & Slater’s Contract
• Uncertainty regarding Rashawn Slater’s contract
  00:31:02 - 00:33:20] BetOnline Ad Read & More Training Camp Notes**
  00:33:20 - Linebacker & Special Teams Depth Storie
• LB rotation updates
• Funny story: Iowa State NIL Myles Purchase
  00:36:05 - QB2 Battle
• Outlook for the Hall of Fame game, camp future stars, and deep roster analysis
  00:41:21 - Running Back Room
• Camp injuries and RB depth chart
  00:44:10 - Chargers Fans
• Shoutouts to fan clubs (Fresno Diehard Bolt Club, etc.)
  00:45:00 - Hall of Fame Game Plans & Rivers Retirement
• Preview of Hall of Fame game, Antonio Gates
• Philip Rivers’ retirement announcement & emotional tribute video discussion

Matt "Money" Smith and Lorenzo Neal discuss the excitement around Antonio Gates’ Hall of Fame induction and preview the upcoming Chargers training camp. They highlight how quickly training camp tickets are selling, praising the family-friendly atmosphere and engaging fan experiences. The hosts dive into the reveal of the Chargers’ new alternate uniforms, debating their favorites and discussing the team's track record in each color. They break down key roster concerns, particularly the second-round pick holdouts and injuries affecting top receiver options. The episode also covers important position battles, especially on the defensive line and in the secondary, and emphasizes the need to finalize Rashawn Slater’s contract extension.

00:00:14 – 00:01:32
Kicking Off: Antonio Gates Hall of Fame Induction & Training Camp Excitement
00:01:32 – 00:05:15
Training Camp Preview & Fan Experience
00:05:15 – 00:09:28
New Chargers Alternate Uniforms Unveiled
00:09:28 – 00:12:37
Uniform Debates & Superstitions
00:12:37 – 00:18:39
Training Camp Holdouts: Trey Harris and the Rookie Contract Stalemate
00:18:39 – 00:24:47
Mike Williams’ PUP List Status & WR Depth Concerns
00:24:47 – 00:33:53
The Offensive Line Puzzle & Rashawn Slater’s Extension
00:33:53 – 00:36:49
Defensive Line Depth & Replacing Puna Ford
00:36:49 – 00:44:30
Secondary Battles: Cornerback and Safety Position Competition
00:44:30 – 00:46:37
Secondary Versatility & Scheme Fit Under New Coaches
00:46:37 – 00:49:39
Tight End Upgrades: Excitement Over Conklin and Gadsden
00:49:39 – 00:50:58
Looking Ahead: Training Camp Progress & Preseason Opener
00:50:58 – 00:51:49
Travel Plans: Bolts in Brazil Event Reminder
00:51:49 – End
Episode Wrap-Up & Closing Thoughts

Matt “Money” Smith and Lorenzo Neal catch up during the team’s final offseason break before training camp kicks off. Lo shares stories from his time at Andre Reed’s charity golf event and swap memories about LT and Philip Rivers. The guys break down expectations for the Chargers’ wide receiver depth, O-line questions, fullback battles, special teams standouts, and new alternate uniforms. Plus, they look ahead to the Hall of Fame Game, Antonio Gates’ enshrinement, and the big Bolts trip to Brazil.
Matt “Money” Smith and Lorenzo Neal catch up during the team’s final offseason break before training camp kicks off. Lo shares stories from his time at Andre Reed’s charity golf event and swap memories about LT and Philip Rivers. The guys break down expectations for the Chargers’ wide receiver depth, O-line questions, fullback battles, special teams standouts, and new alternate uniforms. Plus, they look ahead to the Hall of Fame Game, Antonio Gates’ enshrinement, and the big Bolts trip to Brazil.

2:!2- Lo with Andre Reed

3:10- Plan to go to Canton

4:00- Stats on Cam Dicker and Specialists 5:49- Big Dates with Training Camp & Uniform Reveal

6:42- Wide recievers for the season - Q is a starter 7:53- Forcing without a #1 and expectations 9:09- Mike Williams & Trey Harris 11:44- Training Camp Plan and first game in Canton

13:17- Tom Crean on Harbaugh family

16:37- Ben Herbert’s offseason plan

20:23- Phillip Rivers story 21:15- How Money got his nickname 24:15- Online outlook & expectations

27:15- ZIon runblocking

31:49- Ladd player comp to AB 33:01- Adding Caroll to west coast division with former head coaches

35:00 First time head coaches vs previous exp 37:19- Uniform predictions ☕️ To Purchase the MUG : https://shop.bleav.com/product/bleav-in-chargers-mug/ 🎸 https://www.youtube.com/@PrestynSmithMusic

Money and Lo kick things off reminiscing about the legendary 2006 Chargers season, with Lo reflecting on his role as lead blocker for MVP LaDainian Tomlinson. From there, they take live fan questions covering Justin Herbert's fit in the new offense, the battle for QB2, early rookie standouts and Harbaugh’s culture shift throughout the organization.
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Money and Lo are joined by Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer to discuss the buzz around Jim Harbaugh potentially bringing Chargers training camp to Fresno. Mayor Dyer shares how the city is preparing to roll out the red carpet — including facilities, accommodations, and even a famous surf ranch for Money.

The episode also touches on standout performances from minicamp, the team’s upgraded depth, and promising rookies like Oronde Gadsden II and Trey Harris. But it’s the Central Valley takeover talk that steals the show.