Chargers News: LA Signs New International Talent at Wide Receiver

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The Los Angeles Chargers have added free agent wide receiver Praise Olatoke to their roster, as announced in a recent press release.

Olatoke, who stands at 6-foot-2 and weighs 205 pounds, transitioned from a successful track and field career at Ohio State University to football. He was an All-Big Ten First Teamer in 2022 and clocked an impressive 10.27 seconds in the 100-meter dash at the Big Ten Outdoor Championships.

Olatoke's football experience is limited to playing with Ohio State's club football team, marking his first organized football stint. Born in Nigeria and raised in Scotland, Olatoke is part of the NFL's International Pathway Program, which offers international athletes a chance to join NFL rosters. Due to his inclusion in this program, he won't count towards the Chargers' 90-player training camp roster or the practice squad player cap if he makes it that far.

Chargers General Manager Joe Hortiz sees potential in Olatoke's speed, though his inexperience makes it unlikely he will have a significant impact this season.

In addition to Olatoke, the Chargers have also signed veteran safety Tony Jefferson, who recently came out of retirement. This move reflects the team's strategy of exploring all options to strengthen their roster.