Chargers have Exercised WR Quentin Johnston's Fifth-Year Option

The Los Angeles Chargers have exercised WR Quentin Johnston’s fifth-year option, meaning the 2023 first-round pick will earn a fully guaranteed $18.1 million in 2027.

While drop concerns and inconsistency drew criticism early in his career after a slow start, Johnston has responded with back-to-back breakout seasons, raising the possibility that another leap could be on the horizon.

After posting 38 receptions for 431 yards and two touchdowns in 17 games as a rookie, Johnston rebounded with 55 catches for 711 yards and eight touchdowns in 15 games as a sophomore, followed by 51 receptions for 735 yards and eight scores in 14 games this past season for the Bolts. 

The six-foot-three, 215-pound wideout recorded 11 contested catches with a 47.8% success rate—both career highs—after tallying seven in each of his first two seasons, while also adding 26 first-down receptions in 2025.

At just 24 years old, Johnston could be poised for another breakout in 2026 as additional opportunities could open up after yet another promising campaign. Allen's 777 receiving yards ranked second on the team, trailing Ladd McConkey’s 789, while leading the Chargers with 81 receptions on 122 targets.

If Los Angeles wants to shift Johnston into a more target-heavy, possession role next season, the foundation is already in place. His reduction in drops, improved reliability in contested situations and stronger situational awareness indicate he may be ready to shoulder a higher-volume workload. Additionally, veteran WR Keenan Allen has still yet to be re-signed by Los Angeles, which could increase Johnston's usage.

In new Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel’s scheme, Johnston could be featured in ways that allow him to maximize his size and strength after the catch. By creating favorable matchups and building in early-down rhythm targets to get him in a groove, Los Angeles can turn him into Justin Herbert’s dependable chain-mover rather than limiting him to a vertical or red-zone specialist.

Whether Johnston steps into Allen’s role or not, his trajectory suggests the Chargers may finally feel comfortable with the wideout’s development and have a clearer vision for his future. The early-career struggles have begun to fade, replaced by steady growth and improved efficiency—trends that have only strengthened his trust with Herbert.

If that progress continues under McDaniel’s system, 2026 could mark the season Johnston transitions from promising former first-round pick to a foundational offensive centerpiece.

Considering the Chargers’ young wide receiver corps, this is a move that makes sense for both the player and the team.