Chargers hope for second-year leap from secondary duo in 2025

The Los Angeles Chargers are counting on a second-year leap from two of their young cornerbacks ahead of the 2025 season.

Los Angeles Chargers cornerback Elijah Molden celebrates with cornerback Tarheeb Still and defensive tackle Scott Matlock after a fumble recovery in the first half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at SoFi Stadium. | Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

The only acceptable outcome for the 2025 season for the Los Angeles Chargers is to do better or match their postseason appearance from this past season.

The term rebuild is not in the vocabulary of Jim Harbaugh, who already had his team playing like an actual threat to the Lombardi Trophy in just his first season on the job.

However, now the pressure is on for this team to be even better than last year. For that to happen, the team will need to lean on young talent in 2025 to make a major leap.

RELATED: Los Angeles Chargers linked to former second-round pick in NFL free agency

Kris Rhim of ESPN recently did a fantastic, detailed piece on the Chargers' need for both second-year cornerbacks, Tarheeb Still and Cam Hart, to become starting-caliber players in 2025.

Both players were given opportunities last season after injuries decimated the Chargers' secondary. However, now with the way the current roster looks, those moments were a blessing in disguise for the team.

Still ended last season with four interceptions while Hart earned the 21st-best grade in pass rush for all cornerbacks, according to Pro Football Focus.

Hart and Still could become one of those stories that is constantly told during Chargers primetime games. Both were selected in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Now, have the opportunity to be the long-term answer for the Chargers' secondary.

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Taylor Heinicke can’t hold onto the pass as Los Angeles Chargers cornerback Cam Hart makes the tackle during the second half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. | Denny Medley-Imagn Images

— Enjoy free coverage of the Chargers from Los Angeles Chargers on SI —

More Los Angeles Chargers News:

Chargers may have one more shot at trading for a Pro Bowl WR

Los Angeles Chargers undrafted free agents contract details revealed

Chargers' J.K. Dobbins still regarded as one of top free agents available entering June

Keenan Allen is one of NFL's top free agents left -- Should Chargers make the call?

Chargers rookie Tre Harris hasn't signed contract, yet it's not a concern...for now