Trikweze Bridges made headlines as one of the final selections in the 2025 NFL Draft. The Los Angeles Chargers picked him in the seventh round, adding a dynamic and versatile defensive back to their roster. Let’s take a closer look at his journey, skill set, and what he brings to the team.

From Oregon to Florida: A Story of Versatility

Bridges began his college career at Oregon, spending four years honing his craft. He then transferred to Florida for his final season, becoming a consistent presence on the Gators' defense. Trikweze Bridges excelled at both safety and cornerback, filling any position as needed. This flexibility was key during his pro day, where he impressed scouts with a 4.38-second 40-yard dash and strong position drills.[^1]

[^1]: Chargers Draft Florida Gators DB Trikweze Bridges with Second-to-Last Pick in Draft

“I told all the scouts in attendance today, in my opinion, Trikweze, the way he finished the year, the position flexibility, the height, length, speed, match up player,” said Florida coach Billy Napier.

Draft Day: Chargers’ Hidden Gem

On April 26, 2025, the Chargers selected Trikweze Bridges with pick No. 256.[^2] Though drafted near the very end, Bridges was far from an afterthought. He registered 70 tackles, six pass breakups, and two interceptions in his final college season. These statistics show he can impact the game both in coverage and as a tackler. The Chargers added him to a competitive defensive back room, where his versatility stands out.

[^2]: 2025 NFL Draft: DB Trikweze Bridges, Florida

What the Experts Say

Draft analysts highlighted Bridges’ athletic profile, length, and potential upside. While he faces stiff competition to secure a roster spot, his traits have caught the eye of media and coaches alike. According to Bolts From The Blue, “Bridges has a long, filled out frame.... He’ll need time to develop in coverage but has lots of upside, especially as a special teamer.”

USA Today gave the pick a B+, citing Bridges’ ability to perform at both safety and cornerback in college. CBS Sports echoed this, noting his knack for shrinking passing windows with his length.

The Road Ahead

Bridges enters Chargers camp with something to prove. His journey from unheralded transfer to draft pick shows the resilience and determination he brings to the league. Though he’ll first need to earn his keep on special teams, his combination of speed, intelligence, and versatility gives him a genuine shot at sticking on the roster.

Conclusion

Trikweze Bridges exemplifies what late-round gems can offer NFL teams — relentless work ethic, versatility, and untapped potential. As Chargers fans look forward to the upcoming season, keep an eye on Bridges as he strives to make an impact both on defense and special teams. For more on the Chargers’ draft strategy and player analysis, check out the latest updates from the Chargers' official draft page and in-depth coverage from Gators Illustrated.