Will the Chargers Get a Breakout Game From Quentin Johnston?

The Los Angeles Chargers are going to need more production from their passing game if they want to turn things around, and one player who could make a significant difference is Quentin Johnston. The former first-round pick has shown flashes of what he can do throughout his career, but consistency has continued to be a major question.

At this point, the Chargers need someone other than Justin Herbert to step up and make plays. Johnston has the physical tools and athletic ability to become a legitimate weapon in this offense. The question is whether he can put everything together and deliver the type of performance that changes the conversation surrounding him.

Johnston is coming off an encouraging individual performance against the Houston Texans, despite another disappointing loss for Los Angeles. He caught a 58-yard touchdown pass from Herbert, finishing the game with one reception for 58 yards. While the limited involvement was disappointing, the big play was another reminder of what he can bring to this offense.

Through seven games this season, Johnston has recorded 13 receptions for 260 yards and one touchdown. His 20 yards per reception are impressive, but the lack of consistent involvement remains an issue. He has demonstrated that he can make explosive plays against quality opponents, recording a 57-yard reception against Kansas City and a 44-yard reception against Seattle earlier this season.

The problem has been finding ways to get him involved more consistently.

With the Chargers struggling to find an offensive identity, getting Johnston more opportunities could provide Herbert with another option capable of creating explosive plays. The offense has struggled to move the football consistently, and relying on the same players to carry the passing game has not produced the results they need.

Johnston has the size and speed to create mismatches against opposing defensive backs. He is also capable of stretching the field and forcing defenses to respect the deep ball. However, he needs to become more dependable and take advantage of the opportunities that come his way.

His previous two seasons offer some reason for optimism. Johnston recorded 711 receiving yards and eight touchdowns in 2024 before following that up with 735 yards and another eight touchdowns in 2025. There is enough evidence to suggest he can be a productive receiver when things are clicking.

The upcoming matchup against the Baltimore Ravens could be another opportunity for Johnston to make an impact. The Chargers need explosive plays, especially with their offense struggling to find consistency. Getting Johnston involved early could help open things up for the rest of the receiving group and give Herbert another legitimate weapon.

Nobody is expecting Johnston to suddenly become the focal point of the offense. However, the Chargers need more from him than a couple of big plays every few weeks.

At 25 years old, there is still time for Johnston to continue developing. The talent is there, but the Chargers need to see it translate into more consistent production.

A breakout performance against Baltimore would be a welcome development for an offense desperately searching for answers. Johnston has shown he can make the big play. Now it is time to see whether he can put together a complete game.