The Los Angeles Chargers defeated the Denver Broncos, 23-16, on Sunday afternoon. However, their top two wide receivers, Ladd McConkey and Quentin Johnston, briefly exited the game due to injuries. What happened to Johnston, and what is the latest on his status?
What Happened to Quentin Johnston?
Johnston was hobbling after a third-down catch across the middle of the field in which he got rolled up. He limped off the field and headed to the locker room in the first quarter due to a right ankle injury.
The fact that he headed straight to the locker room was initially concerning. However, Johnston returned to the game and played through the injury.
Quentin Johnston #chargers
Hobbled off the field after this play. Unable to see much from this angle but these tackles where the players twist can often lead to ankle/knee injuries. pic.twitter.com/hZ233NXACS
— Tom Christ, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT (@FantasyInjuryT) October 13, 2024
The second-year receiver led the Bolts in yards per catch (12.9) and touchdown receptions (three) through the first five weeks of the season.
The Chargers are lucky that Johnston and McConkey are both okay, as they are already down DJ Chark and tight end Hayden Hurst also exited the game at one point during Sunday’s contest.
Will Johnston be available when Los Angeles faces the Arizona Cardinals on Monday Night Football in Week 7?
Probably not. Johnston did not practice on Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday and is considered doubtful for MNF. NFL players typically need at least one limited practice under their belt before suiting up for a game, so Johnston is probably on the outside looking in.
Fantasy Impact of Johnston’s Injury
Should Johnston miss time, the fantasy impact will be minimal. McConkey’s role as the team’s top target would be solidified and he’d be a safer Flex option, though his floor is still a concern for a team that entered the week ranked second in rush rate over expectation.
Joshua Palmer (23-yard catch in the first quarter after Johnston departed) would profile as the downfield threat in this offense to roll the dice on if you’re grasping for straws, but the lack of projectable volume is going to keep him out of our top 40 receivers most weeks.
But let’s be honest, McConkey is the only viable fantasy pass catcher on the Chargers.
