Quentin Johnston Injury News & Updates

Johnston caught all three of his targets for 23 yards and a touchdown in the 31-14 win over the Raiders on Sunday.

Johnston's touchdown came late in the first quarter on a nifty designed short target, which required the 2023 first-round pick to nimbly dart around for 10 yards and into the end zone. Week 14 presents an obvious challenge against a gamey Philadelphia defense, but it could become more difficult with the left hand fracture to quarterback Justin Herbert, which will require surgery Sunday. Herbert played through the injury throughout the second half and largely seemed unaffected aside from some cumbersome padding around the injured area, and both the quarterback and head coach Jim Harbaugh think it's possible Herbert could play next week. Still, Johnston has been incredibly volatile in terms of targets in recent weeks and that probably doesn't change with a dinged up Herbert and his uncertain status.

Johnston failed to catch any of his three targets in the 35-6 drubbing at the hands of the Jaguars on Sunday.

Justin Herbert was pulled early in the second half after the Chargers were manhandled on both sides of the ball. The entirety of the team's passing attack took a hit, but none more so than Johnston who just garnered 10 targets in the win prior against the Steelers. It's fair to assume the Chargers should get back on track against the lowly Raiders in Week 13, but with difficult matchups upcoming against teams like the Eagles, Chiefs and Texans, this might not be the only game that's rough sledding for Johnston.

Johnston (shin) is active for Sunday's game against the Jaguars.

Though Johnston carried a questionable tag into Sunday, he didn't appear to be at any major risk of missing the contest after he was able to turn in a full practice Friday. After he had been limited to between zero and six targets over four straight appearances from Weeks 5 through 9, Johnston saw his involvement in the passing attack pick back up in the Chargers' win over the Steelers this past Sunday, when he finished with five catches for 42 yards on 10 targets. However, due to the presence of fellow wideouts Ladd McConkey and Keenan Allen as well as the emergence of rookie tight end Oronde Gadsden, Johnston's target counts could remain highly volatile from week to week.

Johnston (shin), who is questionable for Sunday's Week 11 matchup against Jacksonville, appears likely to play after practicing in full Friday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Johnston was given a questionable tag heading into the weekend despite logging a full practice Friday. Players who end the week with a full practice session typically end up playing in the upcoming contest, though Johnston's status may not be officially clarified until around 90 minutes prior to Sunday's 1:00 PM ET kickoff. If he does suit up, Johnston will likely take on his usual key role in the Chargers' WR corps alongside Ladd McConkey and Keenan Allen.

Johnston (shin) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Jaguars after practicing fully Friday, Eric Smith of the team's official site reports.

Johnston was limited Wednesday and Thursday, but his return to a full session Friday bodes well for his chances of facing Jacksonville. That said, the WR's official 'questionable' designation makes his status worth confirming ahead of the Chargers' 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff Sunday. In his team's Week 10 win over the Steelers, Johnston recorded an 82 snap share en route to catching five of his team-high 10 targets for 42 yards.

Johnston (shin) will be listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Jaguars.

Johnston was limited at practice Wednesday and Thursday, with added context regarding his Week 11 status slated to arrive via his official participation level Friday. If Johnston is limited or out Sunday against the Jaguars, Tre' Harris would likely see added snaps alongside Ladd McConkey and Keenan Allen.

Johnston (shin) remained limited at practice Thursday.

The same applies to fellow wide receiver Ladd McConkey (ankle), with each player now having one more chance to practice fully ahead of Sunday's game against the Jaguars. Ultimately, Friday's final injury report will clarify whether Johnston and/or McConkey head into the weekend with a Week 11 injury designation.

Johnston (shin) was limited at practice Wednesday.

As was fellow wide receiver Ladd McConkey (ankle), which makes the duo's status worth tracking ahead of Sunday's game against the Jaguars. Johnston was on the field for 82 percent of the Chargers' snaps on offense in the team's Week 10 win over the Steelers, en route to logging a team-high 10 targets, and at this stage it's unclear if his shin issue is something that occurred in that contest or popped up during Wednesday's practice.

Johnston had five receptions on 10 targets for 42 yards in Sunday's 25-10 win over Pittsburgh.

Johnston paced the Chargers in targets on Sunday Night Football, finishing with his second game recording double-digit targets this season. The large volume didn't result in a notable fantasy score this time around, as it was Ladd McConkey (4-107-1) who cashed in Justin Herbert's lone touchdown pass of the evening. Johnston is still on pace for a career year with a 37-502-6 receiving line through nine appearances. The 23-year-old will look to enter Los Angeles' Week 12 bye on a high note with a strong showing against the Jaguars next Sunday.

Johnston recorded four receptions on five targets for 53 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 27-20 win over the Titans.

Johnston bounced back from a zero-target performance in Week 8, thanks primarily to 23 and 19-yard receptions -- the latter of which went for a touchdown. Most importantly, he seemed to regain his role in the Chargers' offense, matching Keenan Allen and Oronde Gadsden in targets. Overall, Johnston logged his highest yardage total since Week 4 and is likely to remain a volatile fantasy performer, though he has a touchdown in five of eight games this season

Johnston wasn't targeted in Thursday's 37-10 win over the Vikings.

Johnston was on the field for 38 of 73 offensive snaps, trailing Tre' Harris (43) and Ladd McConkey (42) but finishing well ahead of Keenan Allen (18). Harris has an overlapping skill set with Johnston, and the rookie second-round pick could gradually supplant Johnston as the team's go-to deep threat. Johnston exceeded 70 receiving yards in each of his first four appearances this season while scoring four touchdowns over that span, but he has just 70 yards and one touchdown in his last three games combined. He'll try to bounce back against the Titans in Week 9.

Johnston caught two of six targets for 30 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 38-24 loss to the Colts.

Making his return from a one-game absence due to a hamstring strain, Johnston struggled with drops and didn't see a lot of volume, but he was still able to make an impact with a seven-yard TD receptions from Justin Herbert in the third quarter. Johnston will take a 28-407-5 line on 46 targets through six contests into a Week 8 meeting with the Vikings, who just surrendered a combined 13-304-3 line to A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith.

Johnston (hamstring) practiced fully Thursday.

After being limited Wednesday, Johnston -- who was inactive for the Chargers' 29-27 win over the Dolphins in Week 6 -- returned to a full session a day later, which sets the stage for the wideout to return to action Sunday against the Colts. Prior to his injury, Johnston was off to a fantasy-friend start to the 2025 campaign, with a 26/377/4 receiving line (on 41 targets) through five contests.

Johnston (hamstring) was limited at practice Wednesday.

Johnston approached Week 6 action with a questionable tag after logging limited practices Wednesday through Friday, and was ultimately deemed inactive for the Chargers' 29-27 win over the Dolphins. Johnston now has two more chances to upgrade his participation level ahead of this Sunday's game against the Colts, but the wideout will likely need to practice fully by Friday in order to avoid a Week 7 injury designation.

Johnston (hamstring) is participating in Wednesday's practice, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Johnston managed to log a trio of limited practice sessions before being ruled out for the Chargers' win over the Dolphins in Week 6, so he may need to resume practicing in full in order to gain clearance for Sunday's matchup against the Colts. If the third-year pro were forced to miss any more time, rookie second-round pick Tre' Harris would get another chance to step into an expanded offensive role alongside Ladd McConkey and Keenan Allen.

Johnston (hamstring) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Dolphins.

Johnston took a questionable tag into the weekend after turning in limited practices Wednesday through Friday and was viewed as a game-time decision leading up to Sunday's 1 p.m. ET kickoff, but the Chargers have ultimately chosen to hold out the ascending third-year wideout for the first time this season. In Johnston's absence, more target volume could be available for starting wideouts Ladd McConkey and Keenan Allen, while rookie Tre' Harris and KeAndre Lambert-Smith could benefit from more playing time in three-receiver formations. Given that he seemed to close to playing Sunday before being made inactive, Johnston should have decent odds of returning to action Week 7 versus the Colts.

Johnston (hamstring), who is questionable to play against Miami on Sunday, is trending toward missing the matchup, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Johnston's hamstring injury held him to a trio of limited practices this week. Though there was hope that he'd be able to take the field against the Dolphins, it now appears likely that Johnston will have to miss his first game of the season, though his official status may not be announced until about 90 minutes before Sunday's 1:00 PM ET kickoff. Should Johnston indeed need to sit out Sunday's contest, Tre' Harris could be asked to step up as the Chargers' No. 3 wideout.

Johnston (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Miami.

Johnston practiced in a limited fashion both Wednesday and Thursday due to a hamstring injury, and so far he hasn't done enough to gain clearance for Week 6 action. His status will be clarified about 90 minutes before Sunday's 1:00 kickoff, and if he's active he'll be looking to build upon the 26-377-4 line on 40 targets that he's racked up through five contests this season.

Johnston (hamstring) remained limited at practice Thursday.

Johnston was also limited Wednesday, so he'll probably need to work fully Friday in order to approach Sunday's game against the Dolphins without an injury designation. In five games to date, Johnston has caught 26 passes on 41 targets for a team-high 377 receiving yards and four TDs, a pace that has the 2023 first-rounder firmly on the fantasy lineup radar ahead of Week 6 action.

Johnston (hamstring) was limited at practice Wednesday.

Johnston logged an 82 percent snap share in this past Sunday's 27-10 loss to the Commanders, while catching all four of his targets for 40 yards and carrying once for nine yards. It's unclear whether the wideout -- who lost a fumble in the contest -- is dealing with an issue coming out of Week 5 action or if his hamstring injury occurred during Wednesday's practice. Look for added context in that regard to arrive no later than Thursday, once the Chargers' next practice report is posted.

Johnston finished with four receptions on as many targets for 40 yards and a lost fumble while adding one rush attempt for nine yards in Sunday's 27-10 loss to Washington.

Johnston coughed up a momentum-killing fumble to end a lengthy drive in the second quarter that derailed both his and his team's days. The Commanders took over in their territory and promptly drove the ball down the field for a touchdown on the ensuing possession that the Chargers never recovered from. Johnston still finished second in receiving yards for his club on a low-volume passing day. Managers will have to chalk this up as a dud and continue rolling out the breakout fantasy star in a soft matchup against the Dolphins next Sunday.

Johnston caught eight of 13 targets for 98 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 21-18 loss to the Giants.

The 2023 first-round pick appears to be coming into his own. Johnston hauled in his fourth TD in four games with a 36-yard strike from Justin Herbert in the second quarter, and he led the Chargers in receptions, receiving yards and targets on the afternoon while setting personal bests for the season in all three categories. Johnston's 2025 rise has coincided with a decline in fortunes for Ladd McConkey, and at some point Herbert may make an effort to get the latter going, but Johnston will be the one taking an impressive 22-337-4 line on 36 targets into a Week 5 meeting with the Commanders.

Johnston tallied six receptions for 89 yards on 10 targets in the 23-20 win over the Broncos on Sunday.

Johnson broke free for a 37-yard reception that appeared to have him bottled up for a shorter gain only for the play to not be ruled dead allowing the third-year receiver to scamper for additional yardage. Still, the 10 targets was second only behind Keenan Allen (11) and Johnston was frequently used on intermediate routes all over the field as well. That's now consecutive games in which the 2023 first-round pick has finished top two in targets, all but solidifying his key role in the dynamic offense.

Johnston caught just three of his seven targets for 71 yards and a touchdown in the 20-9 win over the Raiders on Monday.

Johnson had multiple critical drops in the first quarter, but for a second consecutive week the 24-year-old once again connected with Justin Herbert on a beautiful frozen rope this time for a 60-yard touchdown that proved to be all the scoring necessary to beat the Raiders. The 2023 first-round pick did tie for the team high with seven targets, but unlike Keenan Allen and Ladd McConkey, the majority of Johnston's targets appeared to be scripted and don't necessarily indicate a potential bump in volume on a week-to-week basis.

Johnston finished with five receptions on seven targets for 79 yards and a pair of touchdowns in Friday's 27-21 win over the Chiefs.

Johnston looked like a fantasy stud in Brazil after cashing in on two of Justin Herbert's trio of touchdown passes. The third-year wideout has had his shares of ups and downs, but this is the kind of performance the Chargers had in mind when they selected Johnston in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft. It is worth noting that both Keenan Allen (7-68-1) and Ladd McConkey (6-74-0) finished with more targets and receptions in Friday's win. That said, if the Chargers' offense continues to air out it out like we saw against the Chiefs, then all three starting receivers theoretically could eat this season. Make sure Johnston is rostered ahead of next Monday's matchup against the Raiders.

Johnston (concussion) isn't listed on the Chargers' initial Week 1 injury report that was released Tuesday.

Chargers head coach John Harbaugh had already confirmed Monday that Johnston cleared the NFL's five-step concussion protocol, and the third-year wideout's absence from the injury report suggests that he practiced fully Tuesday and will be available for Friday's season opener versus the Chiefs in Sao Paulo, Brazil. While Johnston projects to begin the 2025 campaign as a starter, the Chargers' offseason additions of veteran Keenan Allen and rookie second-round pick Tre Harris could cut into Johnston's target share and playing time.

Johnston has been fully cleared from concussion protocol, according to Chris Roling of SI.com.

Johnston sustained a concussion during a preseason loss to the Rams on Aug. 16, but the wideout appears poised to be available for Friday's regular-season opener against the Chiefs. Look for added context on that front to arrive once the Chargers' first official practice/injury report is released ahead of the contest.

Johnston (concussion) did individual drills at practice Thursday, Kris Rhim of ESPN.com reports.

It's a sign of progress through the concussion protocol after a hard hit knocked him out of Saturday's preseason loss to the Rams. The quick return to practice, even in a limited capacity, suggests Johnston is on track for Week 1 against the Chiefs in Sao Paulo, Brazil. He mostly worked with the first-string offense this summer, but his season-long role is in doubt after the Chargers drafted WRs Tre Harris (second round) and KeAndre Lambert-Smith (fifth round) and signed Keenan Allen. The depth chart may be fluid beyond leading man Ladd McConkey.

Coach Jim Harbaugh said Johnston sustained a concussion during Saturday's 23-22 preseason loss to the Rams, Kris Rhim of ESPN.com reports.

Johnston was on the receiving end of a big hit from a Rams defender on a missed connection down the right sideline with QB Justin Herbert early in the first quarter, and the former's helmet bounced off the turf as he went to the ground. After Johnston left the field on a cart, he went to a nearby hospital to be evaluated further. With a concussion now confirmed for Johnston, he'll be subject to the protocol for head injuries in order to practice and play in a game.

Johnston (head) was carted off the field during Saturday's preseason game versus the Rams, Greg Beacham of the Associated Press reports.

Johnston remained on the turf after landing hard on his helmet early in the first quarter and then was taken to the locker room, likely to undergo tests to determine the nature of his injury. Assuming a head injury is confirmed, he'd be subject to the concussion protocol in order to practice and eventually play again.

Coach Jim Harbaugh noted Tuesday that Johnston isn't in line to play in Thursday's Hall of Fame Game against the Lions, Eric Smith of the Chargers' official site reports.

Harbaugh said that "veteran traditional starters" won't be seeing action in the contest, with Ladd McConkey being another Chargers' wideout not slated to play Thursday. In the wake of Mike Williams' retirement, McConkey and Johnston are on track to maintain key roles in the team's offense this coming season, with 2025 draftees Tre Harris and KeAndre Lambert-Smith looking to make an immediate impact in a WR corps that also includes Derius Davis and Jalen Reagor (lower body).

Chargers offensive coordinator Greg Roman said Johnston, Tre Harris and Jalen Reagor can play the X receiver spot, Alex Insdorf of BoltBeat.com reports.

Johnston handled the role for most of 2024, posting a 55-711-8 receiving line in 15 regular-season games while more than doubling his yards per route (1.85) compared to an ugly rookie campaign. It was a clear step forward for the 2023 first-round pick, but he still left some big plays on the field, dropping seven passes and struggling in contested-catch situations. The Chargers responded by signing Mike Williams -- who has since retired -- and using a second-round pick on Harris to give Johnston competition for the X receiver spot. Johnston's name is the first one Roman mentioned when discussing the position in response to Williams' recent retirement.

Johnston was running with the first-team offense during mandatory minicamp, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Johnston took a step forward in his second pro season despite logging fewer snaps. However, his role in 2025 appeared to be in jeopardy after the team signed Mike Williams (undisclosed) and selected Tre Harris 55th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. According to Popper, Ladd McConkey, Johnston and Jalen Reagor have been the trio of receivers running with the first team during mandatory minicamp. Harris will likely rise up the depth chart as training camp progresses, so Johnston's role is not yet secure, particularly if Williams can remain on the field.

Second-round pick Tre Harris figures to compete with Johnston and Mike Williams for perimeter snaps, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

The Chargers' top receiver, Ladd McConkey, is at his best working from the slot, yet also figures to get playing time in two-wide formations (as was the case for much of last season). Johnston thus finds himself in a tricky situation, despite being a recent first-round pick (22nd overall in 2023) who improved considerably between Years 1 and 2. The improved version was still wildly inconsistent, memorably putting up 186 yards in Week 18 before going catch-less (on five targets) in a wild-card-round loss at Houston. Johnston is good with the ball in his hands, especially relative to other big WRs, but Harris may prove superior at getting open and catching the ball. There's also some chance, though perhaps a slim one, that Williams emerges as a real threat again, now two years removed from an ACL tear and returning to Los Angeles after a one-year sabbatical. The good news for those interested in Johnston is that his already-modest ADP figures to drop even further after the Harris pick.

Johnston (thigh) failed to bring in any of his five targets in Saturday's 32-12 playoff loss Houston.

Johnston entered the wild-card round loss carrying a questionable tag, but he showed no limitations from the thigh injury while running routes. The 23-year-old's playoff debut was instead plagued by his hands after suffering multiple drops en route to a zero-catch performance. Saturday's dud comes on the heels of the Johnston's best game of his career in Week 18 against the Raiders (13-186-0). The inconsistent sophomore finished the regular season with a 55-711-8 receiving line across 15 games for the Chargers.

Johnston (thigh) is active for Saturday's wild-card game in Houston.

Johnston sandwiched limited practices around a DNP on Wednesday due to a thigh issue and was given a questionable designation for the Chargers' postseason opener. Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reported Friday that Johnston was expected to play Saturday, which now has been confirmed. As a result, Johnston will team up with Ladd McConkey at wide receiver and look to build upon the 13-186-0 outburst he produced on 14 targets last Sunday at Las Vegas.

Johnston (thigh/illness), who is listed as questionable for Saturday's wild-card round game against the Texans, is "good to go" for the contest, a source tells Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com.

Johnston logged a limited practice Tuesday and a 'DNP' on Wednesday, before returning to a limited session Thursday. Based on Fowler's report, the wideout (who put up a career-best 13-186-0 receiving line on 14 targets in the Chargers' Week 18 win over the Raiders) is on track to be available for Saturday's 4:30 ET kickoff, with official confirmation of his status, either way, set to arrive once Los Angeles' inactives are posted.

Johnston (thigh/illness) is listed as questionable for Saturday's wild-card game against the Texans.

After producing a career-best 13-186-0 receiving line on 14 targets in the Chargers' Week 18 win over the Raiders, Johnston has been tending to a pair of health concerns that have kept him out of one practice and limited him in two others leading up to the playoff opener. Head coach Jim Harbaugh hasn't shed much light on the severity of the thigh injury or illness, but Johnston's status will now be worth keeping close tabs on leading up to Saturday's 4:30 p.m. ET kickoff. With the Chargers ruling out Joshua Palmer (foot) for the wild-card game, DJ Chark and Derius Davis would be next in line to take on more reps behind No. 1 wideout Ladd McConkey if Johnston is unable to play.

Johnston (thigh/illness) didn't practice Wednesday.

After being limited by a thigh issue Tuesday, Johnston sat out Wednesday's session with an illness cited for his absence along with his previously listed thigh issue. Thursday's final injury report is thus slated to reveal the game status' of both Johnston and fellow wideout Joshua Palmer (foot), who has logged back-to-back 'DNPs' ahead of Saturday's playoff opener against the Texans.

Johnston was a limited participant in Tuesday's practice due to a thigh injury.

Johnston finished the regular season in impressive fashion, recording career highs in catches (13), receiving yards (186) and targets (14) in the Chargers' 34-20 win over the Raiders this past Sunday. He may have suffered the thigh injury at some point along the way, however, though his ability to practice in any fashion Tuesday offers hope that the issue isn't too serious. Assuming Johnston is able to upgrade to full practice participation by Thursday, he should head into Saturday's wild-card game in Houston without a designation.

Johnston recorded 13 receptions on 14 targets for 186 yards in Sunday's 34-20 win over the Raiders.

Johnston took a solid step forward from a disastrous rookie season in 2024, and he capped the campaign with the most productive game of his career. He set new career-best marks in targets, receptions and yards, including long gains of 39, 37, 22 and 19 yards. While Johnston has still shown plenty of inconsistency, he has emerged as a viable secondary pass catcher alongside Ladd McConkey as the Chargers head into a wild-card round matchup against the Texans.

Johnston caught five passes for 48 yards on eight targets against New England on Saturday.

Johnston dropped another pass and ideally would have done more with eight targets on a day where Justin Herbert threw for 284 yards and three touchdowns. There have been flickers from Johnston every so often throughout 2024, and the Chargers are clearly committed to giving him starter-level snaps, but it would be really nice to see Johnston even out his game and become more dependable. Johnston heads into his Week 18 matchup against Las Vegas with a catch rate of 54.5 percent at just 6.8 yards per target -- unacceptable numbers for a starting wideout playing in a Herbert offense.

Johnston secured three of six targets for 18 yards in the Chargers' 34-27 win over the Broncos on Thursday night.

Johnston played a minor role as his final line implies, finishing the night with the sixth-fewest receiving yards on the Chargers. The second-year speedster had put together back-to-back five-catch, one-touchdown efforts in his previous two games, so Thursday's modest and scoreless line represented a notable downturn. Johnston will look to take advantage of the Patriots' non-Christian Gonzalez inconsistent secondary coverage during a Week 17 road matchup in New England on Saturday, Dec. 28.

Johnston no longer appears on the Chargers' Week 16 injury report and should be available to play Thursday against the Broncos, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

The Chargers released their initial Week 16 report Monday, which listed Johnston as a non-participant due to an ankle injury. However, Popper notes that Johnston's inclusion on the report was a mistake, and the Chargers instead intended to list left guard Zion Johnson with the ankle injury. Johnston is coming off a busy outing in Sunday's 40-17 loss to the Buccaneers, as he saw a season-high 10 targets and finished with five catches for 45 yards and a touchdown.

Johnston (ankle) was listed as a non-participant on Monday's estimated practice report.

The ankle injury is new for Johnston, so it bears monitoring his practice statuses over the next couple of days ahead of Thursday night's game against the Broncos. Johnston's 73 percent snap share against the Bucs on Sunday was right in line with his norm, so it's unclear when he was injured. He finished with a 5-45-1 receiving line on a season-high 10 targets. If Johnston were to miss Week 16, Joshua Palmer, Jalen Reagor and DJ Chark would be in line to handle outside wide receiver snaps, with rookie Ladd McConkey spending most of his time in the slot.

Johnston finished with five receptions on 10 targets for 45 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 40-17 loss to the Buccaneers.

Johnston was one of the few bright spots for the Chargers in a forgettable loss, reeling in one of quarterback Justin Herbert's two touchdown passes. The 22-year-old Johnston led his squad in targets even with Ladd McConkey (knee/shoulder) back in action Sunday. Expect Johnston to remain involved as one of the Chargers' top pass catchers in Week 16 in an exciting Thursday Night Football billing against the Broncos.

Johnston caught five of his seven targets for 48 yards and a touchdown in the 19-17 loss to the Chiefs on Sunday.

Some assumed Johnston would operate as the team's top target with Ladd McConkey (shoulder/knee) sidelined, but Joshua Palmer took over as the intermediate focal point (6-9-78). Johnston still nearly saw a season high in looks (eight back in Week 11), which is a prominent point especially because the second-year target was still used as a deep-threat specialist. Given the litany of difficult injuries McConkey seems to be trying to gut through, Johnston and Palmer could once again see an uptick in work against a bad Tampa Bay defense next week.

Johnston caught two of his four targets for 12 yards in the 17-13 win over the Falcons on Sunday.

The Chargers didn't score an offensive touchdown, instead relying on Kirk Cousins to give the game away en route to four interceptions including one returned for a pick-six. Quarterback Justin Herbert completed just 16 passes and technically Johnston was the second-leading target with two receptions, but rookie Ladd McConkey saw an overwhelming majority of the looks with nine catches on 12 targets for 117 receiving yards. That's now three straight games the second-year wide receiver has two or fewer receptions and it's hard to assume that'll change against a stout Chiefs defense next week.

Johnston failed to secure any of his five targets in Monday's 30-23 loss to the Ravens.

After finding the end zone in three straight weeks, Johnston came crashing back down to Earth on Monday. The 23-year-old wideout struggled with drops, an issue that his plagued his young career. Additionally, his 65 percent offensive snap share is his lowest in the past four games, while rookie receiver Ladd McConkey led all Los Angeles wideouts in snaps and receiving yards against Baltimore. Johnston has proven he can have an impact for fantasy purposes in recent weeks, but his potential to be a true alpha receiver continues to be in question. The TCU product will look to bounce back when the Chargers visit the Falcons in Week 13.

Johnston caught two of his eight targets for 48 yards and a touchdown in the 34-27 win over the Bengals on Sunday.

Johnston's eight targets were a season high, but the dismal completion rate mars the stat somewhat. The second-year wide tallied a touchdown in his third straight game in what amounted to yet another relatively easy pitch-and-catch touchdown, a theme of Johnston's scores for most of the season. It's possible the streak could continue against another soft defense against the pass in the Ravens come Week 12.

Johnston caught his two targets for 24 yards and a touchdown in the 27-17 win over the Chargers on Sunday.

That's now five touchdowns in seven games for the second-year wide receiver after he struggled to the tune of just two touchdowns over 17 games in his rookie season. Once again Johnston was effectively left wide open on his score, but at some point flukiness can be credited more towards an offensive scheme that has allowed Johnston to be a successful depth piece for a receiving corps desperate for a big-play threat. Johnston could be poised for a bit more volume when the Chargers take on the hapless Cincinnati defense next week.

Johnston secured four of five targets for 118 yards and a touchdown in the Chargers' 27-10 win over the Browns on Sunday.

Johnston comfortably led the Chargers in receiving yards while checking in second in receptions and targets to Ladd McConkey. The highlight of the speedy second-year wideout's return from a two-game absence due to an ankle injury was a 66-yard touchdown grab on a busted coverage on the part of the Browns in the second quarter, Johnston's fourth score of the season. Johnston's receiving yards were also a season high, affording plenty of momentum heading into a Week 10 home matchup against the Titans.

Johnston (ankle) practiced fully Thursday, Eric Smith of the Chargers' official site reports.

After missing two straight contests, Johnston is poised to return to action Sunday against the Browns. In the process, he'll bolster a Chargers wideout corps that also features Ladd McConkey, Joshua Palmer, and possibly DJ Chark (groin). Through five games thus far, Johnston has caught 14 of his 22 targets for 164 yards and three touchdowns, a pace that puts the 2023 first-rounder on the fantasy radar in deeper formats.

Johnston (ankle) was limited at practice Wednesday.

Johnston has missed back-to-back contests, but his ability to continue to practice in a limited fashion offers hope that he could return to action Sunday against the Browns. Once he's cleared to play again, Johnston will bolster a Chargers wideout corps that also features Ladd McConkey (hip) and Joshua Palmer. In the five games he's suited up for this season, Johnston has hauled in 14 of his 22 targets for 164 yards and three TDs.

Johnston (ankle) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Saints.

Johnston, who was also inactive this past Monday against the Cardinals, was deemed a non-participant in practice Wednesday through Thursday before being working in a limited fashion Friday and then being listed as doubtful for Sunday's contest. In his continued absence, Ladd McConkey, Joshua Palmer and Simi Fehoko are in line to lead the Chargers' Week 8 WR corps, with Brenden Rice, Jalen Reagor and Jaylen Johnson in reserve.

Johnston (ankle) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Saints.

Johnston injured his ankle Week 6 in Denver but was able to play through it. Having said that, he hasn't practiced in the meantime and now is in danger of missing a second contest in a row. Johnston's status thus will be confirmed about 90 minutes before Sunday's 4:05 p.m. ET kickoff. As for the rest of Chargers' receiving corps, Ladd McConkey (hip) and DJ Chark (groin) are listed as questionable and Derius Davis (hamstring) is listed as doubtful, so Joshua Palmer, Simi Fehoko and Brenden Rice as the healthy options on the active roster, while Jalen Reagor, Dez Fitzpatrick and Jaylen Johnson are candidates to be elevated from the practice squad.

Johnston (ankle) remained sidelined at practice Thursday.

Johnston, who missed this past Monday's 17-15 loss to the Cardinals, now has one more chance to practice ahead of Sunday's game against the Saints, but at this stage his status for the contest looks cloudy. Friday's injury report will reveal whether Johnston has any chance to return to action this weekend. Meanwhile, fellow WRs Ladd McConkey (hip) and Derius Davis (hamstring) have also missed back-to-back practices.

Johnston (ankle) remained sidelined at practice Wednesday, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Johnston, who was inactive for Monday night's 17-15 loss to the Cardinals, has now missed four straight practices, which clouds his status for Sunday's game against the Saints. If he's unable to suit up this weekend, Joshua Palmer, Ladd McConkey and Simi Fehoko would once again be in line to lead the Chargers' WR corps in Week 8.

Johnston (ankle) is inactive for Monday night's contest against the Cardinals.

An ankle issue led to Johnston being listed as a non-participant in practice Thursday through Saturday before approaching Monday's game listed as doubtful. In Johnston's absence versus Arizona, look for Ladd McConkey and Joshua Palmer to lead the Chargers' Week 7 receiving corps, with Simi Fehoko mixing in and Brenden Rice and Jalen Reagor available in reserve. Johnston's next chance to suit up for game action will arrive Sunday against the Saints.

Johnston (ankle) is listed as doubtful for Monday's contest against the Cardinals.

It appears as if the second-year wideout is trending towards not playing Monday after failing to practice all week. The Chargers are dealing with an absurd number of injuries to their receiving corps with Ladd McConkey (hip, questionable), Simi Fehoko (shoulder/groin) and tight end Hayden Hurst (groin, doubtful) all listed on the injury report. D.J. Chark (groin) could make his season debut, but the beleaguered wideout room could mean limited passing production for quarterback Justin Herbert.

Johnston (ankle) didn't practice Friday.

After being listed as a non-participant on Thursday's practice estimate, Johnston didn't work in Friday's session, which sets the stage for what (if anything) he does Saturday to be pivotal with regard to his chances of suiting up Monday night against the Cardinals. In five games to date, Johnston has caught 14 of his 22 targets for 164 yards, though the wideout has helped the fantasy prospects of those who roster him by catching three TDs in that span.

Johnston (ankle) didn't practice Thursday.

Johnston exited this past weekend's win over the Broncos after suffering an ankle injury, and though he was able to return to the contest, the wideout's absence from Thursday's practice makes his status worth monitoring ahead of Monday night's game against the Cardinals. Meanwhile, fellow WRs Ladd McConkey (hip) and Simi Fehoko (shoulder/groin) are also on the Chargers' Week 7 injury report after logging limited sessions Thursday.

Johnston (ankle) isn't practicing Wednesday, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Johnston returned to Sunday's 23-16 win over the Broncos after exiting with an ankle injury, playing 27 percent of snaps in the first half and 63 percent in the second half. He'll now have an extra day to prepare for the next game with the Chargers heading to Arizona for Monday Night Football. The first official practice report will come Thursday afternoon.

Johnston caught three of his four targets for 22 yards in the 23-16 win over the Broncos on Sunday.

Johnston's longest reception was only eight yards underscoring what was the 23-year-old's second consecutive disappointing fantasy performance. This was the fourth game in which the Chargers attempted more runs than passes; even though Johnston is one of the team's top passing options, the offense's sheer disinterest in passing the ball will make the 2023 first-round pick an unreliable option most weeks.

Johnston returned to Sunday's game against the Broncos after having previously exited the contest due an an ankle injury.

Both Johnston and Ladd McConkey were shook up during Sunday's game, but were subsequently able to return to the field. They, along with Joshua Palmer, will thus continue to lead a Chargers' Week 6 WR corps that also includes Simi Fehoko and Derius Davis.

Johnston exited Sunday's game against the Broncos after suffering an ankle injury.

Prior to hurting his ankle, Johnston caught both of his targets for 14 yards. In his absence, Joshua Palmer, LaddMcConkey, Simi Fehoko and Derius Davis are the Chargers' available options at the wide receiver position.

Johnston recorded one catch on five targets for nine yards in Sunday's 17-10 loss to the Chiefs. He added one rush for four yards.

The positive news for Johnston is that he remained heavily involved in the offense, finishing second on the team with five targets even after the return of Joshua Palmer. The negative is that he had very little production with the opportunity, with his lone catch coming at the end of the third quarter. Johnston has been productive primarily based on touchdowns early this season, as he has yet to top 51 receiving yards in a contest.

Johnston caught both of his targets for 44 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 20-10 loss to the Steelers.

Justin Herbert hit Johnston wide open on the left sideline for an easy walk-in touchdown, his third of the season on a well-schemed play. The lack of pass attempts will limit Johnston's upside on a week to week basis, but it's been an encouraging sign to see Herbert trust the second-year wideout out repeatedly after his much maligned rookie campaign. However, it is worth noting that the Pro Bowl quarterback entered the game with a reported high-ankle sprain and then left in the second half after getting it banged up on a sack. It remains to be seen if he'll miss any time, but an already run-oriented offense could become even more so if backup Taylor Heinicke is forced to see extended playing time.

Johnston brought in five of six targets for 51 yards and two touchdowns in the Chargers' 26-3 win over the Panthers on Sunday.

The ground game once again took center stage for the Chargers on Sunday, but Johnston created some fireworks for fantasy managers with his 29- and five-yard touchdown grabs in the first half. The second-year wideout had been talked up during the summer as a potential breakout candidate, and despite modest passing numbers for Justin Herbert thus far, Johnston is certainly showing flashes of potentially take on the mantle of a No. 1 receiver in the future. He'll look to conquer the tough matchup presented by the Steelers defense on the road in Week 3.

Johnston tallied three receptions on five targets for 38 yards in Sunday's 22-10 win over the Raiders.

Johnston was actually the team's leading receiver heading into the fourth quarter, but two of his catches were first-read looks for minimal yards and his longest, a 16-yard reception, came on a shallow crossing route with the defense stationed way back to prevent a third-and-long conversion. It's at least encouraging quarterback Justin Herbert trusted Johnston on the designed looks given the second-year's struggles in his rookie year, but it'll be interesting to see if Joshua Palmer and Ladd McConkey continue to generate more opportunities as the season progresses.

Johnston had one reception on two targets for 18 yards in Saturday's preseason loss to the Rams.

Johnston had a quiet rookie campaign last year in the shadows of former teammate and superstar wideout Keenan Allen. With the latter joining Chicago in the offseason, a large chunk of production suddenly frees up for the current receiver room. Joshua Palmer and early second-round pick Ladd McConkey figure to occupy significant portions of the statistical pie, with Johnston and veteran DJ Chark jockeying for position not far behind the projected duo of young starters. Should Johnston carve out a role as the team's third option or slot receiver, he could wind up outproducing his draft slot this season.

Chargers GM Joe Hortiz said he believes Johnston is "really going to launch" as a starter during the 2024 season, Kevin Patra of NFL.com reports.

Horitz mentioned that in his time as director of player personnel with Baltimore last season that Johnston "was a player we liked," and he praised the 2023 first-round pick's work ethic this offseason while acknowledging "some rawness to his game" as a rookie. Johnston finished with a subpar 431 yards last season despite suiting up for all 17 games, but with Keenan Allen and Mike Williams (knee) no longer in the picture for Los Angeles, he has a clear path to a starting role alongside incumbent Joshua Palmer, while being joined by DJ Chark rookie second-rounder Ladd McConkey. New coach Jim Harbaugh and OC Greg Roman could spark life to the Chargers' offense, though the new scheme projects as a run-heavy approach. Still, Johnston will have every opportunity to establish himself atop this depth chart, despite his uninspiring rookie production. He'll need to make some strides this offseason toward more consistently gaining separation, not to mention cleaning up issues with drops.

Johnston and Joshua Palmer (knee) are the top wide receivers left on the Chargers after the team released Mike Williams (knee) and traded Keenan Allen to Chicago.

The 2023 first-round pick should have every chance to earn a starting job even if the Chargers end up bringing in another wide receiver via an early pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. The lack of target competition is promising for fantasy purposes, while Johnston's rookie-year performance and new coaching staff are considerably less promising. Jim Harbaugh and OC Greg Roman are known for prioritizing the running game, and the team's willingness to move on from both Allen and Williams further hint at that being the plan in Los Angeles despite having QB Justin Herbert under contract long term. Johnston said earlier this offseason that he expects a "breakout" under Harbaugh, after managing just 431 yards in 17 games as a rookie.

Johnston recently said he has a "world of confidence" in himself and expects a "breakout" in 2024 under new Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh, ESPN.com's Kris Rhim reports.

Johnston had a disappointing rookie season by the standards of a No. 21 overall pick, catching 38 of 67 targets (56.7 percent) for 431 yards and two touchdowns in 17 games. He had just one outing with more than six targets and none with more than seven, despite making 10 starts and playing 64.6 percent of the Chargers' offensive snaps. Johnston didn't have the best circumstances, to be fair, especially after QB Justin Herbert suffered a season-ending finger injury Week 14. The new coaching staff led by Harbaugh can't possibly be worse than what Brandon Staley and Co. offered, though the change does bring about the possibility of more emphasis on the running game after four straight seasons in which Herbert averaged more than 35 pass attempts per appearance. Fellow WRs Keenan Allen and Mike Williams (ACL) also are under contract for 2024, albeit with the possibility for the Chargers to free up $20 million or more in cap space if either is traded or released.

Johnston recorded two receptions on five targets for 17 yards in Sunday's 13-12 loss to the Chiefs.

Even in the absence of Keenan Allen (heel), Johnston has struggled to consistently command targets. That continued Sunday, as he tied for fourth on the team with five targets, and he's failed to top that mark in three of the four games that Allen has been sidelined. Johnston closes his rookie campaign with a disappointing 38 receptions for 431 yards and two touchdowns across 17 games.

Johnston had three receptions (six targets) for 29 yards in Sunday's 16-9 loss to Denver.

The Chargers were without their top three receivers from the start of the season, so Johnston finished as one of three replacement wideouts to see six or more targets Sunday. The first-round rookie failed to capitalize on the added opportunity, posting his third consecutive game of 30 or fewer receiving yards. Johnston's role and fantasy value should remain unchanged heading into a Week 18 matchup against the Chiefs.

Johnston had two receptions (five targets) for 29 yards and gained one yard on his only rushing attempt in Saturday's 24-22 loss to Buffalo.

Johnston remained a starter under interim head coach Giff Smith after Keenan Allen (heel) missed his second game in a row Saturday. The first-round rookie's five targets were his most since Week 11, but a poor conversion rate resulted in mediocre fantasy numbers. Fellow starter Joshua Palmer and tight end Gerald Everett tied for the team lead in targets with eight Saturday, leaving the Johnston's role unchanged following the Chargers' recent staffing shuffle. Given that fact, Johnston makes for a risky play against Denver in Week 17.

Johnston caught of his three targets for 23 yards and a touchdown in Thursday's 63-21 loss to the Raiders.

Despite Keenan Allen (heel) out for the divisional matchup and an insurmountable deficit by the end of the first half that should have set the stage for more passing opportunities, the rookie didn't draw any additional looks. It's hard to know what Johnston's role will be moving forward especially with head coach Brandon Staley since fired, but it's clear the downgrade at quarterback with Easton Stick limits any potential fantasy upside.

Johnston caught three of his four targets for 91 yards in the 24-7 loss to the Broncos on Sunday.

It's been a dismal season for the Chargers and for the 2024 first-round pick, but quietly Johnston may be turning things around with his second consecutive game of 50-plus yards. A beautiful fourth-quarter 57-yard bomb in stride accounted for the majority of the wideout's yardage in a game in which Los Angeles trailed from the jump, but it's hard to discount the catch given Johnston has failed to make those exact kind of plays at various points this season. Quarterback Justin Herbert sustained an injury to a finger in his throwing hand, which could set the stage for Easton Stick to play Thursday to kickoff the Week 15 slate.

Johnston caught five of his seven targets for 52 yards in the 6-0 win over the Patriots on Sunday.

It's a low benchmark, but after struggling for most of the season Sunday's outing was easily the best of the rookie's career, especially given the sloppy conditions. Keenan Allen predictably led the team in targets (nine), but it was encouraging to see Johnston get involved to the extent that he did as no other wide receiver saw more than three targets on the afternoon. It's too early to say the 22-year-old has turned the corner, but given the Chargers' desperate need for a second reliable pass catcher, Johnston will be afforded every opportunity to overcome his rookie woes.

Johnston (ribs/ finger) practiced fully Wednesday.

In Sunday night's 20-10 loss to the Ravens, Johnston was limited to one catch on three targets for seven yards, while logging 29 of a possible 66 snaps on offense. Johnston suffered a rib injury during the third quarter of the contest, per Kris Rhim of ESPN, but with a full practice Wednesday under his belt, the 2023 first-rounder is slated to play this weekend against the Patriots. However, as long as top wide receiver Keenan Allen (quad) is available, Johnston will profile as a hit-or-miss fantasy lineup option.

Johnston (ribs) is participating in practice Wednesday, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

The extent of Johnston's participation remains to be seen, but his presence at practice Wednesday bodes well for his availability Sunday against the Patriots after Johnston sat out most of the second half Monday against the Ravens. Johnston caught one of three targets for seven yards in the 20-10 loss prior to hurting his ribs. The rookie wide receiver was medically cleared to return, so it's possible his inability to return to the game was at least in part performance-based.

Coach Brandon Staley said Monday that X-rays on Johnston's ribs were returned negative, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Johnston didn't see the field after injuring his ribs in the third quarter of Sunday's loss to the Ravens. Afterward, coach Brandon Staley told Jeff Miller of the Los Angeles Times that "it wasn't that [Johnston] couldn't go back in the game. We just didn't feel like... it was the right thing to go back in the game." The reason for Johnston's lack of late-game reps thus was precautionary, but Staley also relayed to Miller on Monday that the wide receiver wasn't 100 percent. There's an expectation that Johnson will take part in practice this week, but the Chargers won't get back on the field until Wednesday, at the earliest, ahead of Sunday's contest at New England.

Johnston secured one of three targets for seven yards during Sunday night's 20-10 loss to the Ravens.

Johnston exited Sunday's loss in the third quarter due to a rib injury and didn't retake the field, though coach Brandon Staley said after the game that the rookie first-round pick was medically cleared. "It wasn't that [Johnston] couldn't go back in the game," Staley said. "We just didn't feel like... it was the right thing to go back in the game." Johnston also had a crucial drop on the final drive of Los Angeles' loss to the Packers in Week 11, and he may not have much more leeway for error before running the risk of falling out of favor with his coaching staff. He faces a tough matchup against New England's secondary Week 12.

Johnston caught two of six targets for 21 yards in Sunday's 23-20 loss to the Packers.

Johnston's underwhelming performance was marred by a critical drop on Los Angeles' final drive, preventing the team from entering scoring position. The rookie first-rounder has just one 50-yard game and one touchdown through his first 10 appearances, struggling to make a significant impact despite playing in one of the league's better passing offenses.

Johnston caught all four of his targets for 34 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 41-38 loss to the Lions.

It took 10 weeks, but Johnston finally scored his first NFL touchdown thanks to a nifty designed red-zone play early in the fourth quarter. The rookie's counting stats Sunday are hardly worth applauding, but Johnston did draw two long pass interference calls, and on the first one the 22-year-old likely should have still brought in the ball and galloped untouched for a lengthy score. While fantasy managers have to acknowledge it's a relatively low bar set, this was easily Johnston's best game to date and represents a bit of hope for the weeks to come. Expect the Chargers to utilize Johnston heavily next week against the porous Packers defense.

Johnston caught two of his three targets for 14 yards in the 27-6 drubbing of the Jets on Monday.

The Chargers attempted the second fewest pass attempts of the season to date, but it was still discouraging to see Johnston relegated to an afterthought with nominal No. 2 wideout Joshua Palmer (knee) sidelined in this one. While quarterback Justin Herbert's first read will seemingly always be Keenan Allen (8-9-77 on Monday), it seems likely to assume a more back-and-forth affair would have created a few more opportunities for the first-round rookie to be involved almost by default. Johnston's fantasy value will likely depend on the status of Palmer, even in a presumably better offensive matchup Week 10 against the Lions.

Johnston could be a featured target of the Chargers' passing attack with Joshua Palmer (knee) sidelined ahead of Monday's matchup against the Jets.

Johnston almost has to be a major target given Palmer was a featured option (19 receptions, 349 yards, one touchdown) in the team's previous five games. While Keenan Allen and Austin Ekeler will likely be heavily utilized in the passing game, quarterback Justin Herbert has typically leaned on at least three pass catchers in a given game even in the most dire of situations, and the Jets' defense poses a significant obstacle specifically against the ground game. The 2023 first-round pick finally was involved Week 8 against the pitiful Bears defense (5-6-50) largely after Palmer reaggravated his knee injury, but Monday will pose an entirely different, and difficult, threat in a game that has significant playoff aspirations for both sides.

Johnston had five receptions on six targets for 50 yards in Sunday's 30-13 win over the Bears.

Johnston set new highs in receptions, yards and targets after No. 2 wideout Joshua Palmer left Sunday's win in the first quarter after potentially reaggravating the same knee that was injured in the loss to Kansas City in Week 7. Palmer was able to return later in the second quarter and finished out the team victory with no reported issues. That said, this is the second injury scare to the same knee for Palmer within a week's time, so it wouldn't be surprising to see the him held out for precautionary reasons. Johnston would receive a boost in value for deeper leagues should he wind up starting opposite Keenan Allen next Monday against the Jets, and he makes for a good insurance policy for those planning to play Palmer in Week 9.

Johnston caught his lone target for 20 yards in the 31-17 loss to the Chiefs on Sunday.

It's hard to label a first-round pick a bust just six games into his career, but at least from a fantasy perspective there's just little optimism for Johnston at the moment. The rookie is the clear third option at wide receiver behind Keenan Allen (62 snaps) and Joshua Palmer (59 snaps), but it's the team's insistence to avoid three-wideout personnel that has hindered opportunities for Johnston to get more involved. If every there was a chance to break out, however, it could come Week 8 against a Bears defense that struggled most of the season.

Johnston did not record a catch on his two targets in the 20-17 loss to the Cowboys on Monday.

There was hope the Chargers would use the early Week 5 bye to assimilate the rookie into the offense with Mike Williams (knee) out for the season, but that optimism was quickly erased with the combination of Keenan Allen and Joshua Palmer accounting for 18 of the total 37 targets in Monday's loss. To make matters worse for Johnston's fantasy managers, Austin Ekeler immediately assumed his typical pass-catching work after a multi-game absence (four catches on six targets for 35 yards), leaving very little opportunities for the TCU standout to do much of anything. Johnston's playing time continues to ever-so-quietly trend up, but the 22-year-old is going to need to actually do something with the increased workload.

Johnston caught one of his three targets for 18 yards in the 24-17 win over the Raiders on Sunday.

There was some speculation Johnston would see a significant uptick in opportunities with Mike Williams (knee) out for the season, but at least for one week that wasn't the case. Game script (24 total pass attempts by the Chargers) likely impacted the 2023 first-round pick somewhat, but the pecking order clearly favors Keenan Allen (five targets) and Joshua Palmer (eight targets) significantly more, and that doesn't even account for Austin Ekeler, who should be returning soon from a high-ankle sprain. The Chargers are on a bye Week 5 and will need to use that time to quickly assimilate the rookie into the offense.

Johnston is slated for a larger role on offense with Mike Williams (knee) having suffered a season-ending ACL tear, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Johnston has played less than 25 percent of offensive snaps in each of the Chargers' first three games this season, but he will need to quickly step up for the passing game with Williams, an every-down player, done for the year. The rookie first-round pick profiles particularly well as a deep threat, which makes him both an ideal fit for Justin Herbert's arm talent and as a complement to Keenan Allen, but he has yet to flash that explosiveness at the NFL level. Sunday's upcoming matchup against a struggling Raiders secondary could set the stage well for Johnston to take advantage of his new opportunity, however. Meanwhile, Joshua Palmer also figures to step into a larger spotlight in the wake of Williams' injury.

Johnston caught two of his three targets for 10 yards in Sunday's 28-24 win over the Vikings.

For a third consecutive week the 2023 first-round pick played under 25 percent of the total team snaps. It appears as though Johnston will need at least one injury ahead of him on the depth chart to get any sort of sizable workload, but with Mike Williams slated for an MRI on Monday after injuring his knee in Sunday's win, that opportunity could come sooner rather than later.

Johnston caught one of his two targets for seven yards in the 27-24 overtime loss to the Titans on Sunday.

The Chargers have a deep wide receiver corps, but it's a bit surprising to see the 2023 first-round pick play just 10 total snaps Sunday after registering a paltry 22 in his NFL debut last week. With Keenan Allen, Mike Williams and Joshua Palmer all healthy, it's understandably hard for the rookie target to crack the rotation. However, given the draft capital invested in the big-bodied target it feels unlikely Johnston will continue to be a nonfactor as the season progresses.

Johnston tallied two catches (on three targets) for nine yards in Sunday's 36-34 loss to the Dolphins.

Despite Mike Williams leaving for a portion of the first half due to a head injury, Johnston only saw 22 offensive snaps, far below supposed No. 4 wide receiver Joshua Palmer's 55. It's possible the Chargers just simply want to ease Johnston into NFL action, but the big-bodied target was supposed to be a more critical offensive factor early on. It'll be interesting to monitor his snap count totals against the Titans in Week 2.

Johnston caught both of his targets for 15 yards in Friday's 23-12 preseason win over San Francisco.

Johnston played into the second quarter and technically was the Chargers' leading receiver on a night that saw them rest all their other key players and throw for only 53 yards on 20 pass attempts. The rookie first-round pick closes out his preseason with eight caches for 62 yards and a TD on 11 targets, and he'll either be the Chargers' third or fourth wide receiver when they host the Dolphins in Week 11.

Johnston caught all three of his targets for 37 yards in Sunday's preseason loss to the Saints.

The 21st overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft once again looked the part, as Johnston hauled in passes of 16 and 15 yards from Easton Stick in the first half -- the latter of which helped set up the Chargers' first points of the game midway through the second quarter. Johnston has yet to work with Justin Herbert in a game, and he'll be behind Keenan Allen and Mike Williams in the pecking order when the regular season begins, but the big-bodied TCU product has a chance to make an impact as a rookie in the Bolts' high-powered passing attack.

Johnson brought in three of six targets for 10 yards and a touchdown in the Chargers' 34-17 preseason win over the Rams on Saturday night.

The rookie first-round pick paced the Chargers in targets while tying for the team lead in receptions. Johnson's first score as a professional came on an eight-yard grab from Easton Stick with 17 seconds remaining in the first half, and he was the target on Los Angeles' first play from scrimmage, which resulted in a catch for a two-yard loss. All of Johnson's targets came in the first half, and with Keenan Allen and Mike Williams ticketed for sparse preseason run, he should have a chance to once again log a healthy amount of snaps during the Bolts' second preseason game against the Saints on Sunday night, Aug. 20.

The Chargers selected Johnston in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, 21st overall.

Wide receiver was a need for the Chargers and that market was slow to develop in the first round, which worked out in their favor. Jaxon Smith-Njigba was the first receiver off the board the pick right before and now Johnston is headed to Los Angeles. Johnston isn't a perfect prospect -- there are questions about his route-running and whether the athletic dominance he showed against Big 12 competition at TCU will translate after running a 4.51 40 at his pro day -- but he's the most projectable outside receiver in this class at 6-foot-3. He projects to line up opposite Mike Williams with Keenan Allen in the slot. Johnston may be fourth in the target pecking order when the season starts, but there are durability concerns with the other Charger receivers. In all, this is a solid landing spot for Johnston, who now has a chance to be fantasy-relevant as a rookie in an explosive passing attack.