Chargers' KeAndre Lambert-Smith reveals secret to Year 2 jump

Chargers second-year wide receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith turned heads in the team's preseason opener against the Houston Texans. Lambert-Smith was among the players we were looking at, and he answered the call. The Chargers practiced for the first time since the win on Saturday, and Lambert-Smith revealed his biggest change heading into the 2026 season. He told the media he feels like he's back in college. “Just mentally, things the outside can’t see," Lambert-Smith said. “Understanding the defense more, everything slowing down. I feel like I’m back in college.” The former Auburn Tiger and Penn State Nittany Lion was stellar in college, recording 176 receptions for 2,702 receiving yards in 60 games. Lambert-Smith showcased his explosive big-play ability and proved to be a consistent downfield threat, traits he displayed against the Texans. Lambert-Smith was involved early and often, which is a good sign for how the Chargers view him moving forward. He hauled in two long passes on the first drive, which helped set the tone for the rest of the game. The 24-year-old finished the game with four receptions for 58 yards. After the game, he patted himself on the back after the win. "I feel like I played fast, executed plays, physical, to our standard in the room," Lambert-Smith said. "Trey [Lance] also played great, delivered the ball on time. I just did what I'm supposed to do." The Chargers currently have 12 wide receivers on their unofficial depth chart. They are likely to keep six of them on the 53-man roster, and Lambert-Smith is making his case to be among the crop. This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Chargers' KeAndre Lambert-Smith reveals secret to Year 2 jump