Former TCU Star Quentin Johnston Emerges as Potential NFL Trade Candidate

Former TCU wide receiver Quentin Johnston has not had a great start to the season so far, and some believe that he could find himself moving on to a new team as a result.

In a piece published Wednesday, Pro Football Focus' Bradley Locker identified Johnston as one of 15 players to watch ahead of the Nov. 10 trade deadline. The New York Giants, Las Vegas Raiders and Green Bay Packers were listed as potential landing spots for the 2023 first-round selection.

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"Johnston won’t be a free agent until 2028, but it wouldn’t be surprising whatsoever if the Chargers moved on already, and teams will assuredly be drawn to his alluring size and speed," Locker writes. "Given the Harbaugh brothers’ proclivities for swapping players (and personnel), New York could be a landing spot — which would bring Johnston back with former offensive coordinator Greg Roman."

Johnston entered the NFL with considerable expectations after the Chargers selected him No. 21 overall following an impressive college career with the Horned Frogs. His combination of size, speed, and athleticism made him an intriguing option to develop into a productive downfield receiver.

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However, translating those physical tools into consistent NFL production has proven challenging.

According to PFF, Johnston owns a career receiving grade of 65.2 and has averaged just 1.28 yards per route run. His struggles have continued into the 2026 season, with his average dropping to 0.93 yards per route run alongside a concerning 22.2% drop rate.

Those numbers help explain why Los Angeles could consider moving on from the former TCU standout despite his physical upside.

Johnston's contract situation also makes him an interesting trade candidate. The Chargers exercised his fifth-year option in April, keeping him under contract through the 2027 season. That gives a potential acquiring team additional time to evaluate his development rather than treating him as a short-term rental.

The Raiders and Packers were also mentioned as possible destinations, giving Johnston multiple potential avenues if Los Angeles decides to entertain offers.

For TCU fans, Johnston's situation is another reminder of the unpredictable transition from college football stardom to the professional level. He was one of the most recognizable offensive talents to emerge from Fort Worth, and his athletic ability continues to make him an intriguing player despite his inconsistent NFL production.

A change of scenery could give Johnston an opportunity to reset his career and demonstrate that he can become the dependable playmaker the Chargers envisioned when they drafted him.

Absolutely nothing is imminent. Still, with the deadline approaching, Johnston's name is one for Horned Frogs fans to watch as the NFL's trade market develops.