"Why is Quentin Johnston struggling? Justin Herbert’s MVP surge and Chargers’ receiver competition explained"

Quentin Johnston’s struggles have become a glaring concern for the Los Angeles Chargers, despite Justin Herbert’s MVP-caliber performance this season. The former first-round pick, once touted as a game-changing weapon, is now fighting for his roster spot amid fierce competition.

With dropped passes and inconsistent production plaguing his young career, Johnston’s future with the team hangs in the balance. As Herbert elevates the Chargers’ offense, the pressure mounts on Johnston to prove he belongs in a revamped receiving corps.

The arrival of new playmakers through the draft and Johnston’s own reliability issues have turned his 2025 campaign into a make-or-break moment. Can he finally live up to his potential, or will he become another draft-day disappointment?

Why is Quentin Johnston Struggling After His Promising Rookie Season?

The 2023 first-round pick showed flashes of brilliance but finished his sophomore season with an inconsistent 55-711-8 stat line. His contested catch win rate (42.1%) ranked bottom-10 among WRs, and drops on critical downs became a recurring theme. The Chargers’ shift to a run-heavy scheme under Jim Harbaugh further limited his opportunities.

Johnston’s 6’4″ frame should dominate 50/50 balls, but his route tree remains underdeveloped. Watch how he rounds off his breakpoints on dig routes – that’s technique, not talent.

But Coach Harbaugh keeps saying “blocking gets you playing time” – maybe he’s being outworked by those undrafted grinders?

The Ladd McConkey Effect: How the Rookie Changed LA’s WR Hierarchy

McConkey’s 13-186 playoff explosion vs. Las Vegas showcased elite separation skills that Johnston hasn’t matched. Their 2025 receiving stats tell the story:

Justin Herbert’s MVP Surge: Savior or Spotlight for WR Issues?

Herbert’s league-leading 72.1% completion rate under pressure masks receiver deficiencies. His passer rating when targeting Johnston (83.2) trails McConkey (121.6) by nearly 40 points. The QB’s “throw open” ability creates stats that don’t reflect actual separation.

That 41-yard dime to Johnston in Houston? Herbert placed it where only a 7’3″ octopus could catch it – sometimes great QBs make bad WRs look serviceable.

Roster Bubble Watch: Is Quentin Johnston Really Fighting for His Job?

With Mike Williams healthy and two drafted rookies (Harris/Lambert-Smith) showing out, Johnston’s $3.2M cap hit might not guarantee his spot. Key red flags:

• Played just 54% of offensive snaps in critical Week 18 loss
• 0 touchdowns in 7 games against playoff teams
• Allowed 2 sacks in 17 blocking assignments

What’s Next for Quentin Johnston? 3 Make-or-Break Scenarios

1. Slot Transition: His size could punish nickel corners if he learns quick-twitch routes
2. Red Zone Specialist: Convert just 30% of his end zone targets last season
3. Trade Bait: Teams like Carolina might gamble on untapped potential

Chargers’ Secret Weapon: How the Run Game is Reshaping the Pass Attack

Harbaugh’s offense runs 62% of plays from 12/21 personnel, forcing defenses to stack the box. This created single coverage opportunities that Johnston failed to exploit: