The recent Chargers Mike Williams reunion could mean the team will likely part ways with former first-round wide receiver Quentin Johnston. According to the breaking news, the Chargers have finally brought some life to the team’s passing game after signing Williams to a one-year deal. Quarterback Justin Herbert reunites with one of his favorite pass catchers while the future for Johnston looks bleak if he doesn’t improve next season. However, the team should probably consider releasing him or listen to trade inquiries to get at least a draft pick in return after failing to meet expectations through two back-to-back seasons.
Originally selected in the 2023 NFL Draft, the former TCU product had one of the worst seasons as a rookie, recording 38 receptions for 431 receiving yards and two touchdowns in 17 games but ten starts. Johnston had his moments of promise last year but it wasn’t enough to help Herbert in the aerial attack as he was highly dependent on 2024 draft pick Ladd McConkey. It’s safe to say that Johnston won’t be an attractive trade candidate unless the Chargers wait until the 2025 season to have those discussions if they don’t see any improvement. However, the team should still consider releasing him and start somewhere else new.
Head Coach Jim Harbaugh has been surprisingly taking the cheap route even though they have money to burn when they have one of the worst wide receivers departments in the league. Despite that, these three teams could take a chance on Johnston if the Chargers open up their eyes and decide to part ways.
Chargers Mike Williams Reunion Could Spell End for First Round Bust – 3 Suitors Could Emerge
Possible Destinations
New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints fans were not too happy about Derek Carr returning for what could be his last season with the team. As much as Mickey Loomis is excited about him, the team should maximize his strengths and get a few receivers on the depth chart. If the Saints don’t improve this season, many should expect Chris Olave to request a trade which would be a huge blow to the wideout department. This would leave Rashid Shaheed as the only capable receiver on the depth chart.
Marquez Valdes-Scantling had an enormous temporary 2024 campaign with the Saints but since he’s leaving for the Seahawks, the team should be looking for a replacement. Perhaps, they could revive him the same way as Johnston who has the talent but it depends on what offensive scheme he fits and the wide receiver could excel well.
Carolina Panthers
As for the Panthers, Adam Thielen is coming back on a new deal but this could still be his last season in the league. It shouldn’t be surprising if the team decides to trade him if they have another disastrous season under quarterback Bryce Young. Xavier Legette and Jalen Coker are two promising but unproven wide receivers that could take this team to a wild card but there’s no guarantee. Johnston might not make a difference but it gives Young another potential homegrown talent to build around.
Dallas Cowboys
If anyone loves to give second chances in this league, it’s the Dallas Cowboys. After trading for Kaiir Elam and Kenneth Murray Jr., it’s clear where the team is heading this offseason. These two athletes have potential upside but nothing special to look forward to. There’s yet to be a conversation on whether the team will re-sign Brandin Cooks as he’s looking for the right situation but the Cowboys could be the team that surprisingly trades for Johnston.
CeeDee Lamb is their only current receiver that is a deep threat and even though Johnston has work to do, they could develop him.
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