TCU Ex Quentin Johnston Gets Another Opportunity as Chargers' Injury Woes Continue

Former TCU standout Quentin Johnston has another chance to establish himself as a key piece of the Los Angeles Chargers' passing attack after fellow wide receiver Ladd McConkey suffered a concussion against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday.

McConkey was ruled out during the first half of Los Angeles' 22-6 loss to Kansas City after taking a hit following a 17-yard reception from quarterback Justin Herbert. The injury came at an especially frustrating time for the third-year receiver, who had only recently returned from a foot injury that forced him to miss the Chargers' previous game against the Denver Broncos.

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For Johnston, the latest setback creates another opportunity to show why the Chargers invested a first-round pick in him in 2023.

Johnston and McConkey both returned to the lineup against Kansas City after missing the Denver game. Johnston had been dealing with a chest injury, while McConkey was working his way back from his foot issue. Unfortunately for Los Angeles, McConkey's return was short-lived, leaving Herbert without another receiving option.

The former Horned Frog entered Sunday's matchup looking to build on a relatively quiet start to the season. Through his first four appearances, Johnston had recorded seven receptions for 108 yards. McConkey, meanwhile, had accumulated 12 catches for 183 yards and a touchdown before his latest injury.

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Now, Johnston could have an opportunity to command a larger share of the targets as the Chargers attempt to get their struggling offense moving.

The circumstances are particularly important for a Los Angeles team that has struggled to find consistency through the opening weeks. The Chargers fell to 0-6 following Sunday's defeat, extending a difficult start that has placed additional pressure on the offense to find answers.

McConkey's absence is not the only challenge facing the receiving corps. Tre' Harris was also unavailable against Kansas City because of a hamstring injury, leaving Herbert with fewer established options at wide receiver.

That situation could make Johnston an increasingly important part of the offensive game plan. His combination of size and downfield ability gives Los Angeles a potential weapon, but he will need to translate the additional opportunity into consistent production.

With McConkey now entering concussion protocol, Johnston has another chance to demonstrate that he can be a reliable target for Herbert. The former TCU star has the opportunity in front of him. Whether he can turn it into a sustained breakthrough remains the biggest question.