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Kris Rhim
INGLEWOOD, Calif — Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Quentin Johnston left the initial series of Saturday’s exhibition match against the Los Angeles Rams on a medical transport after a hit that rendered him immobile on the field for several minutes.
Rams safety Tanner Ingle collided with Johnston as he sought to catch a pass from quarterback Justin Herbert, causing Johnston’s head to turn awry. The atmosphere was tense at SoFi Stadium as Johnston lay still for several minutes while trainers arranged a stretcher for him. Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh and wide receivers coach Sanjay Lal also attended to Johnston.
Eventually, Johnston sat up, visibly upset, slamming his gloves on the turf before departing on the cart.
Derwin James and outside linebacker Khalil Mack. Johnston is anticipated to be the Chargers’ primary deep-ball threat this season; losing him for an extended period could necessitate rookies Tre Harris and KeAndre Lambert-Smith stepping up.
Lambert-Smith also left Saturday’s game due to an injury.
Johnston, the Chargers’ first-round selection in the 2023 NFL draft, concluded last season with 55 receptions, 711 yards, and a team-high eight receiving touchdowns.
