Quentin Johnston is grabbing attention at Los Angeles Chargers training camp this season. With a new wave of talent added to the receiver position, some wondered how Johnston would react. The Chargers brought in Mike Williams, drafted Tre’ Harris, and KeAndre Lambert-Smith, signaling a push for improvement in the group.
However, things took an unexpected turn. Williams announced his retirement before camp, and Harris was delayed signing his rookie deal, making them unavailable for crucial early practices. Johnston has stepped up in their absence, practicing with quarterback Justin Herbert and the first-team offense.
In just a few practices, Johnston made a statement. He caught two impressive touchdown passes from Herbert, showcasing his speed and ability to track the ball well. He expressed high confidence entering his third season, crediting his progress to hard work, supportive coaches, and teammates. “I come in every day and mash the gas as hard as I can,” he said.
Johnston’s growth is evident, particularly in handling deep balls—a skill he’s continued to improve through specialized drills from receivers coach Sanjay Lal. These drills involve tracking passes over his shoulder, a technique that Johnston believes will become second nature with practice.
The competition at receiver is heating up. In recent drills, Johnston has stood out, often working alongside Ladd McConkey and Jalen Reagor, who have also been making plays. With the potential of rookies Harris and Lambert-Smith, Johnston is proving he’s ready to contribute significantly.
Recent statistics from the NFL highlight the importance of receiver performance. In 2022, teams that had receivers with the most explosive plays saw better results. This puts added pressure on players like Johnston to elevate their game.
While Johnston shines, the team is also dealing with some challenges. Left tackle Rashawn Slater missed practices as he negotiates a contract extension. The running back situation is uncertain, with Najee Harris on the non-football injury list and rookie Raheim Sanders absent. They recently added veteran Nyheim Hines, who hasn’t played since a serious knee injury.
Despite the challenges, Johnston’s focus remains on his growth. He said, “All the confidence just comes with experience.” As the padded practices approach, it’ll be exciting to see how the rest of the team performs and how Johnston capitalizes on his opportunity.
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