Is Los Angeles Chargers second-year wide receiver Quentin Johnston poised to turn his career around after a disappointing rookie season?
On the Chargers’ opening drive against the Carolina Panthers, Johnston raced past cornerback Jaycee Horn, catching a 29-yard pass from quarterback Justin Herbert and giving the Bolts a 6-0 lead. Chargers kicker Cameron Dicker missed the extra-point attempt.
Johnston — the 21st overall pick of the 2023 NFL Draft — had 38 receptions for 431 yards and two TD catches in 17 games during his rookie season. The Baltimore Ravens, meanwhile, took star WR Zay Flowers with the 22nd pick, making the Chargers look more foolish.
However, new L.A. head coach Jim Harbaugh indicated he wouldn’t give up on the former TCU star during the offseason.
“I just think he got a bad rap,” Harbaugh said at the beginning of training camp. “I look at some of the clips out of training camp last year. Whatever it was, it just seemed like he was a disappointment in somebody’s mind. He hasn’t been that at all.”
Apparently, Harbaugh is helping Johnston rebuild his confidence, which should help him rebound. The 23-year-old — who is listed at 6-foot-4, 215 pounds — clearly has the physical tools to emerge as a reliable wideout for the Chargers.
