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Rookies Mickens and Reed having a ball
Los Angeles Times
|November 16, 2025
Safety and cornerback making an impact on defense that sparked Chargers' win streak.
SAFETY RJ Mickens (27) celebrates with Chargers teammates after making his first career interception Oct. 23 against Minnesota.
(HARRY How Getty Images)
RJ Mickens feels as if the blueprint is right in front of him. Across the Chargers locker room, he sees No. 3 and immediately knows of the possibilities.
The rookie safety has played a leading role in sparking a Chargers defense that has helped lift the team to a three-game winning streak heading into Sunday's game against Jacksonville. Before getting the chance to prove himself, Mickens learned from the secondary corps around him: Tony Jefferson, Elijah Molden, Donte Jackson and No. 3, Derwin James Jr., the defense's leader.
"He's willing to pour into me and help me get to where he's at and surpass him," said Mickens, who secured his second career interception against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. "And he's willing to help me. I'm really willing to go to him."
This story is from the November 16, 2025 edition of Los Angeles Times.
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