Chargers News: GM Joe Hortiz Details What Makes Quentin Johnston Special
With the Los Angeles Chargers losing Keenan Allen and Mike Williams this offseason, the organization is putting more faith into some of their less experienced wide receivers, including Quentin Johnston.
Johnston, who the Chargers drafted 21st overall out of TCU in 2023, had what many considered to be a disappointing rookie season. Appearing in 17 games with 10 starts, Johnston recorded 431 yards and two touchdowns on 38 receptions. His receiving yards total ranked just 15th among rookies in 2023, despite him being the second receiver taken in his draft class.
New Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz is understanding that Johnston was still only a rookie in 2023, and that there can be an adjustment time for some rookies.
"That's what a lot of rookie seasons look like," Hortiz said, via Eric Smith of Chargers.com. "But he flashed some really impressive traits and the good thing is when you're looking at your roster, you're looking at it all the time, you're watching the film all the time.
Hortiz and new head coach Jim Harbaugh are also confident that Johnston can take the next step heading into his second NFL season in 2024.
"Every time you put on the tape, you see the talent and I expect him to make the jump," Hortiz added, via Smith. "I know we have the right coaches to help him make the jump. I feel good about the guys that are here."
At six-foot-three and a resumé that includes Johnston going over 1,000 receiving yards in his final collegiate season, it's evident that Johnston has talent and was a first-round pick. His game might not have translated immediately to the NFL, but there's still enough reason for Hortiz to believe in Johnston.
Even with the team's faith in Johnston, they still plan on adding to their receiving core. The Chargers have been clear that they still have time to bolster their group through either free agency or the NFL Draft.
