Kristian Fulton came into his first training camp with the Los Angeles Chargers eager to rebuild his confidence and show he can be a starting cornerback. Two weeks into practice, it’s clear Fulton is back to his best.
He’s been impressive on defense, grabbing two interceptions during a joint practice with the Los Angeles Rams and consistently challenging Chargers quarterbacks Easton Stick and Max Duggan during drills.
“I’ve got something to prove. Last year wasn’t my best year. I’ve learned from it,” Fulton said. “I am in a position that gives me the best chance to make plays, which is why I am here.”
After four seasons with the Tennessee Titans, Fulton signed with the Chargers, who drafted him from LSU in the second round in 2021. Last season, he only played in 11 games and missed the final five weeks due to a hamstring injury, which affected him throughout the year.
He was also sidelined with a hamstring issue in Week 2 when the Titans played the Chargers.
Opponents completed 70.8% of their passes against Fulton last season, compared to 48.2% in 2021 and 2022. He also didn’t record an interception, unlike his previous three seasons where he had four.
So far, Fulton seems to be proving that last season was just a blip. Safety Derwin James has already praised Fulton, calling him a “ball hawk” after his performance in the Rams’ joint practice.
“The biggest thing with Kristian and any defensive back is having that confidence and keeping that poise. Be confident out there knowing what you’re going to put on the field,” defensive backs coach Steve Clinkscale said. “He’s getting to the point where he’s got that confidence and starting to feel comfortable.”
Fulton credits much of his progress to Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter and the way he’s set up the defense during the offseason and training camp.
Minter has noticed that Fulton is determined to prove his critics wrong.
“He’s got a boulder on his shoulder. He wants to prove us right. He’s on a great track to do it,” Minter said.
Minter’s defensive scheme, which helped Michigan win its first national title since 1997 last season, focuses on reacting quickly and ensuring versatility among players.
