The Los Angeles Chargers have encountered some issues with dropped passes during training camp, focusing mainly on the rookie wide receivers. Rookie Tre Harris has drawn attention for his drops, which many view as typical for a newcomer, yet more noticeable due to the strong start from fellow rookie KeAndre Lambert-Smith. Despite being a second-round pick, Harris has not progressed as quickly as some fans expected.
Now, veteran wide receiver Quentin Johnston has also been linked to drop problems, raising renewed concerns about the Chargers’ receiving corps as they prepare for the upcoming season. Though Johnston has had occasional drops, these have generally been consistent with his past performance rather than alarming.
Details on Johnston’s Recent Missed Catch
A specific drop involving Quentin Johnston caught attention during a seven-on-seven drill. According to Daniel Popper of The Athletic, Johnston ran a precise stop-and-go double move on a third-and-10 play along the left sideline. Quarterback Herbert delivered a well-placed throw, and Johnston made an initial effort to catch it, jumping and turning to the ball. However, the ball bounced off his hands and hit the ground.
“Receiver Quentin Johnston had a drop in seven-on-seven. On a third-and-10, Johnston ran a stop-and-go double move down the left sideline. He was open. Herbert delivered an accurate ball. Johnston jumped and turned to the ball. It ricocheted off his hands and fell to the turf.” —Daniel Popper, The Athletic
This incident raises the question of whether Johnston’s drops are isolated errors or part of a recurring problem that could limit his contributions.
Implications for Johnston and Chargers’ Receiving Depth
The Chargers‘ wide receiver depth chart saw changes in the offseason with the addition of Harris, Lambert-Smith, and Keenan Allen after the unexpected retirement of Mike Williams. Ladd McConkey currently leads the receiving group, which means Johnston may not command a significant snap count in the 2025 season if his drops continue.
How Johnston responds to these issues during the remainder of training camp could influence his role, while the team manages ongoing adjustments to its receiving lineup.