---
title: "Steve Smith Criticizes Chargers' Handling of Receiver Tre Harris"
url: https://projectchintan.com/article/steve-smith-criticizes-chargers-tre-harris-usage-qqrph
publisher: Project Chintan
author: Project Chintan Newsroom
section: Sports
published: 2026-08-13T00:30:25.181Z
modified: 2026-08-13T03:30:06.797Z
language: en-IN
---

# Steve Smith Criticizes Chargers' Handling of Receiver Tre Harris

Former NFL receiver Steve Smith Sr. has publicly criticized the Los Angeles Chargers' management of rookie wideout Tre Harris during the 2025 season. Smith argues the team did not provide sufficient opportunities for Harris to demonstrate his abilities.

## Key takeaways

- Former NFL receiver Steve Smith Sr. has criticized the Los Angeles Chargers' handling of rookie wideout Tre Harris.
- Smith believes Harris was not given sufficient opportunities during his 2025 rookie season to demonstrate his draft potential.
- The criticism highlights concerns about player development and offensive strategy within the Chargers' organization.

## What Happened

Former NFL star receiver Steve Smith Sr. has voiced strong criticism regarding the Los Angeles Chargers' utilization of wide receiver Tre Harris. Smith stated on his podcast that Harris, a 2025 second-round draft pick, was not given enough chances during his rookie season to prove why the team invested in him so highly.

Smith asserted that the Chargers' approach, which he described as making Harris "wait" and "stunting his growth," limited his development and prevented him from showcasing his capabilities. He specifically mentioned Harris being asked to block frequently, rather than being utilized in the offense to his potential.

## Background

During his rookie year in 2025, Tre Harris was often positioned behind established receivers like Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, and Keenan Allen. With Allen's departure and Johnston and McConkey holding key roles, Harris is expected to have a more significant role in the upcoming season, potentially as the team's WR3. Rookie Brenen Thompson is also making an impact in training camp, suggesting Harris will need to earn his targets.

## Key Facts

- Former NFL receiver Steve Smith Sr. criticized the Los Angeles Chargers' usage of Tre Harris.

- Smith argued that Harris, a 2025 second-round pick, was not given enough opportunities during his rookie season.

- Smith indicated Harris was often utilized for blocking instead of offensive plays.

- Harris spent much of his rookie season behind Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, and Keenan Allen.

- Keenan Allen has since departed the Chargers.

- Rookie Brenen Thompson is also competing for opportunities at wide receiver.

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Canonical: https://projectchintan.com/article/steve-smith-criticizes-chargers-tre-harris-usage-qqrph
Reported from: Multiple Sources