The Chargers drafted wide receiver Quentin Johnston with the No. 21 overall selection in the first round of the 2023 NFL draft on Thursday night. After hearing his name called, he spoke to reporters about his trajectory in an offense spearheaded by quarterback Justin Herbert.
Asked about what it might be like to play with Herbert, Johnston’s excitement to work with the veteran signal-caller was palpable.
“[He is a] great quarterback,” Johnston said. “I saw the call pop up and I’m like, ‘OK, that’s a great quarterback to be playing under.’ I shouldn’t have any problem coming in early and adjusting, soaking up as much stuff as I can from him as far as just football in general.
I feel like I need to come in, as a young guy, as a sponge, taking in as much information as I need to. Then, eventually, clicking with the quarterback and gaining that trust from him.”
Los Angeles needed an explosive element, which is something that Johnston brings. He has the deep speed that makes him a threat down the field and he is prone to take short passes to the house, with his acceleration, wiggle and play strength.
If he is as eager to share the field with Herbert as he let on in his first remarks as a Charger, the pair should become fast friends on the gridiron as Los Angeles looks to put together a bounce-back campaign next season.
