Quentin Johnston, the Los Angeles Chargers’ 2023 first-round pick, has faced significant scrutiny over his first two NFL seasons, mainly due to recurring drops. As the team prepares for its third year together, the focus remains intensely on Johnston’s ability to overcome these issues and fulfill his potential as a reliable wide receiver for quarterback Justin Herbert.

Although Johnston has struggled with drops during training camp, he has also made some impressive catches, suggesting he retains the capabilities that made him an exciting downfield threat during his time at TCU. His challenge is to reduce these critical errors and stabilize his role within the Chargers’ offense.

Receiver Room Adjusts With Departure of Mike Williams

Adding pressure within the Chargers’ wide receiver group are changes caused by the retirement of Mike Williams, who left a key vacancy. This opening creates an opportunity for other receivers to step up, including Brenden Rice, the team’s seventh-round pick from last year and son of NFL legend Jerry Rice.

Despite his pedigree, Rice’s rookie season was limited, playing primarily on special teams with no offensive snaps. His recent performance in seven-on-seven drills has raised concerns, including a significant drop reported by Daniel Popper of The Athletic.

Seven-on-Seven Drills Reveal Challenges for Brenden Rice

Receiver Brenden Rice also had a drop in seven-on-seven. He had slight separation on cornerback Tarheeb Still on a go route down the right sideline. Herbert dropped his throw into a bucket, but Rice could not make the catch.

—Daniel Popper, The Athletic

This missed catch is particularly notable given it came on a well-placed throw from Herbert, unlike what might be expected from less experienced quarterbacks like Trey Lance or DJ Uiagalelei. For Rice, this was a missed chance to solidify his place in the receiver group, but he still has time before the season to improve.

Looking Ahead: The Importance of Overcoming Drops for Chargers’ Wideouts

Both Johnston and Rice face considerable pressure to turn around their drop problems, as the Chargers rely on consistent receiving talent to support Herbert’s passing game. Johnston, as a former first-round pick, has more leeway to develop, while Rice must prove he can capitalize on opportunities created by roster changes.

Going forward, the ability of these receivers to minimize costly mistakes in practice and games will be critical for the Chargers as they strive to boost offensive efficiency and compete effectively in the coming NFL season.