The Los Angeles Chargers appear to be catching a key break as they prepare for Sunday’s matchup in Jacksonville. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the team is “optimistic about Quentin Johnston Sunday in Jacksonville after full participation Sunday,” adding that the Chargers should have “a full arsenal at the skill positions barring something unexpected.”
That’s welcome news for a Chargers offense that has leaned heavily on the passing game throughout its 7-3 start. Johnston, who left last week with a shin issue, was limited in practice on Wednesday and Thursday before upgrading to full participation on Friday. Los Angeles still listed him as questionable, but his clean finish to the week — followed by Fowler’s reporting — has shifted the outlook firmly in a positive direction.
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Johnston didn’t appear to be dealing with anything significant during L.A.’s win over the Steelers, where he logged double-digit targets for the second time this season. But the shin injury raised early doubts when he opened the week limited in consecutive practices.
The Chargers have been one of the NFL’s most cautious teams with injuries, even holding Johnston out earlier this season with a minor hamstring issue. That history made it difficult to project whether the third-year receiver would be cleared. His full session Friday, though, coupled with Fowler’s update, strongly suggests that the injury isn’t considered serious.
A Needed Weapon in a Tight AFC West Race
Johnston started 2025 with a breakout surge — 337 yards and four touchdowns in the first four games — before injuries slowed his momentum and opened the door for Ladd McConkey’s rise. Even so, Johnston remains one of Justin Herbert’s most explosive downfield options, already scoring six touchdowns this season.
With Denver at 8-2 and Kansas City still lurking, the Chargers can’t afford to leave firepower on the sideline. If Johnston suits up, as expected, Herbert should have the full receiving corps available in a crucial road matchup that could shape the AFC West race heading into December.
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