ESPN thinks former Tennessee Vols standout will have breakout season in the NFL in 2022
ESPN thinks a former Tennessee Vols standout could be in for a breakout season in the NFL in 2022. Lindsey Thiry, an NFL writer for ESPN, thinks Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Josh Palmer is in store for a big season. From ESPN: A third-round pick in 2021, Palmer produced modest numbers as a rookie, […]
ESPN thinks a former Tennessee Vols standout could be in for a breakout season in the NFL in 2022.
Lindsey Thiry, an NFL writer for ESPN, thinks Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Josh Palmer is in store for a big season.
A third-round pick in 2021, Palmer produced modest numbers as a rookie, with 33 receptions for 353 yards and four touchdowns. But after an impressive training camp, watch for Palmer to play an increased role and become more of a sought-after target by quarterback Justin Herbert. "There was a volume to the offense that can become overwhelming to a rookie, and he's not dealing with that, so he's able to go out and play fast," offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi said about Palmer. In a preseason matchup against the Cowboys, Palmer caught three passes for 75 yards, including a contested over-the-shoulder 41-yard reception and an 18-yard catch-and-run touchdown.
Palmer was selected by the Chargers in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft.
He's a more talented player, however, than his draft position indicates.
Palmer was the victim of playing at Tennessee during a time when the program had absolutely no offensive identity. His true freshman season with the Vols in 2017 was the worst season in program history, as Tennessee went 4-8 and winless in the SEC.
From there, Palmer played three seasons under Jeremy Pruitt, a coach who thought a good offensive plan was run, run, pass, punt.
Despite the tough experience in Knoxville, the former Vol worked his way into a role with Los Angeles last season, catching 33 passes for 353 yards and four touchdowns.
That role is set to expand this season with Palmer operating as the Chargers' No. 3 wide receiver.
Palmer is in a great situation with a great young quarterback in Justin Herbert. This could be the season when the former Vol becomes a household name.
Featured image via Calvin Mattheis/News Sentinel, Knoxville News Sentinel via Imagn Content Services
