Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Quentin Johnston was taken off the field on a cart during the opening series of Saturday’s preseason game versus the Los Angeles Rams, raising immediate concerns about his health. Johnston suffered the injury while attempting to catch a pass from quarterback Justin Herbert and absorbing a hit from Rams safety Tanner Ingle.
Injury Seems Severe as Johnston Leaves Game Frustrated
Trainers attended to Johnston for several minutes and prepared a stretcher before he was eventually able to sit up. Despite this, Johnston appeared visibly upset as he was escorted off the field. His exit early in the game marked a worrisome moment for the Chargers, who have faced multiple setbacks during training camp.
Johnston’s Role and Chargers’ Injury Challenges This Season
Selected in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, Johnston showed promise in his sophomore season by emerging as a key deep-threat target for the Chargers. Last year, he led the team with eight receiving touchdowns and totaled 55 receptions for 711 yards. Alongside Johnston, rookie wide receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith also left the game with an injury, adding to the team’s concerns.
Team’s Starters and Current Injury Situation Impacting Offense
The Chargers started many of their primary players against the Rams, though key defensive stars Derwin James and Khalil Mack did not play. The team is already coping with the season-ending loss of starting offensive tackle Rashawn Slater, who suffered a torn patellar tendon during training camp. The early loss of Johnston would deepen these injury woes as Los Angeles attempts to build momentum.