The Los Angeles Chargers have undergone significant changes this offseason, bidding farewell to their two top wide receivers, Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. With these departures, questions swirl around the future of the team’s passing game.
Who will step up as the primary target for star quarterback Justin Herbert? According to Chargers’ General Manager Joe Hortiz, all eyes should be on Quentin Johnston, a promising talent poised to become a breakout playmaker in 2024.
Quentin Johnston Rising Star from TCU To Los Angeles Chargers
Selected 21st overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, Quentin Johnston‘s rookie season hinted at the vast potential awaiting realization. The wideout, who played collegiate football at TCU, appeared in every game last year, grabbing 38 passes for 431 yards and scoring twice.
His physical attributes—standing tall at 6’3″ and weighing 220 pounds—combined with his agility, make him a rare find in the league. During a recent appearance on the Up & Adams Show, Hortiz shared his high expectations for Johnston,
When you look at him, when he was coming out of college, he was an elite size/speed athlete. And you saw some rawness to his game, but you also saw the ability, for as big as he is, to drop his weight, get in and out of breaks, come to balance at the top of the route, get out quickly.”
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Quentin Johnston Preparing for a Breakout Year
Hortiz’s confidence in Johnston isn’t just talk; it’s backed by a belief forged in the fires of past observations and the youngster’s evident work ethic. “He can do some rare things for a player his size,” Hortiz asserted.
He reminisced about one of Johnston’s standout college games, watched from the opposing sidelines by none other than current Chargers’ coach Jim Harbaugh, further solidifying their decision to draft him.
“He’s a great kid, he’s a great worker. Everyone here has a high opinion of him. I believe he’s going to launch. I do. His skill set is great. We’re gonna work with him, make him better and better,” Hortiz added, signaling a bright future for the young receiver.
Quentin Johnston Competition and Collaboration
The road ahead for Johnston involves navigating the internal competition, particularly with Joshua Palmer, who also eyes the No. 1 receiver spot. The Chargers have also infused their squad with fresh talent, drafting Ladd McConkey and signing veteran DJ Chark in free agency.
However, it’s Johnston and Palmer who are projected to lead the charge for the Chargers as they aim to improve upon last year’s 5-12 record.
The Chargers have struggled to make a significant impact in the playoffs, with only two appearances since 2014. The upcoming season offers a fresh start, and if Hortiz’s predictions hold, Quentin Johnston will be at the forefront of this revival, potentially marking the beginning of a new era for the Chargers’ aerial attack.
