ProFootballCentral.com

By PFC Chargers Writer Robert Murdock          

Kassim Osgood has come a long way since being picked up by the Chargers as an Un-drafted Free Agent in 2003. Off the field, the former San Diego State University Aztec standout and fan favorite is known as a caring, likeable, stand-up guy. His many interests include acting, (most recently, he appeared as a Marine on the television series “ Jericho ”) and overseeing the Team K.O. Athletes for Education Foundation. He is praised for his contributions in the San Diego community, including being awarded the Jose Cota Man of the Year Award, an honor bestowed upon him by the San Diego Police Historic Association. 

With the Chargers, he has made a name for himself as a “gunner” (Special Teams player who specializes in racing downfield to tackle the kick/punt returner). Using exceptional athleticism and vision, he has contributed to a number of punts downed near the goal line which would otherwise have surely resulted in a touchback. He is regarded as such a force in the kicking game, that opposing teams have been forced to resort to double and triple teams in an attempt to contain him. He has been awarded Special Teams Player of the Year by his teammates, and has been voted to the Pro Bowl……. twice.

Despite all of this, Osgood recently expressed his discontentment due to not seeing much action with the Offense as a receiver, his listed position. The fact that he declared his frustrations in the form of public statement has placed him in some Charger fans’ “doghouses”. Chargers GM A.J. Smith responded to Osgood’s statement saying in short that the Chargers expect Osgood to honor his contract, so it appears Osgood will remain a Charger for at least two more seasons.

A good run-blocker, the knock on Osgood as a receiver at the NFL level is that he seems to have trouble achieving separation from the defenders when running routes. Perhaps this season, Osgood will prove himself to Head Coach Norv Turner, and dispel that perception. In the Chargers recent mini-camp, Osgood by most accounts looked good. A starting roster spot however, will be very difficult to attain, as the Chargers team suddenly finds itself laden with talent at the WR position with last season’s acquisition on Pro Bowler Chris Chambers, the emergence of Vincent Jackson as a reliable Offensive weapon in the latter portion of last season, the return of Eric Parker, last year’s 1st round drafting of Craig “Buster” Davis, Malcolm Floyd displaying promising flashes, and last year’s 5th rounder Legedu Naanee quickly making a name for himself as a versatile play maker.