Chargers training camp: Pair of UDFAs stand out on Day 5

Monday was Day 5 of the Chargers‘ 2026 training camp, and it’s nothing but good vibes for the team. 

Although Tuli Tuipulotu did not participate in team drills, a handful of others are making a name for themselves early in camp, including two undrafted cornerbacks, Avery Smith and Rodney Shelley. 

Smith and Shelley made standout plays on Monday, something the Chargers have been accustomed to throughout the first five days in camp. 

Multiple personnel at practice on Monday said Smith was the standout player, breaking up a Justin Herbert pass before later intercepting third-string quarterback DJ Uiagalelei.

Smith was picking up right where he left off on Saturday, when he had a pair of pass breakups. As for Shelley, he’s been just as good as Smith. On Monday, Shelley recorded multiple pass breakups and was consistently in good position coverage. 

Smith, 22, spent his entire college career at Toledo. He was named a two-time Second-team All-MAC in his final two seasons. In 51 college games, Smith recorded 127 total tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, three interceptions and 26 passes defended.

Shelley, 23, spent his entire college career at Georgia Tech. As a Yellow Jacket, he recorded 81 total tackles, eight passes defended, seven tackles for loss and two interceptions in 45 games. 

The Chargers’ cornerback room is no slouch, but there aren’t any proven superstars. They do possess productive veterans like Donte Jackson, Tarheeb Still and Cam Hart; however, the reliability stops there. 

If Smith and Shelley continue to stand out in training camp and build on that momentum in the preseason, they’ll have a legitimate chance to earn a roster spot.

This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Chargers training camp: Pair of UDFAs stand out on Day 5