Quentin Johnston's Declining Targets Fuel NFL Trade Speculation
When a quarterback reduces his targeting frequency toward a specific wide receiver, does that player become a viable trade asset? This question is now central to the situation surrounding Los Angeles Chargers wideout Quentin Johnston. Johnston, who recorded an impressive 90-95 targets during his final collegiate season with the TCU Horned Frogs in 2022, has seen a noticeable decline in his professional career.
Statistical Trajectory Raises Questions
In his rookie NFL season, Johnston received 67 targets. His numbers then shifted from 91 targets in 2024 to just 78 in 2025. This downward trend in target share is likely influencing his future with the Justin Herbert-led Chargers franchise. Over three seasons, spanning 46 games with 31 starts, Johnston has accumulated 144 receptions on 243 targets, totaling 1,877 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns.
New York Jets Emerge as Potential Suitors
ESPN analyst Rich Cimini has reported that Johnston is being considered as a trade possibility for Garrett Wilson's New York Jets. The Jets have addressed nearly every positional need during the 2026 free agency period, with wide receiver remaining the sole exception. General Manager Darren Mougey, a former wide receiver himself, holds four picks within the top 44 selections and could pursue a receiver on Day 2 of the draft or opt to trade for an established veteran.
Cimini emphasized that this offseason has been particularly active for wide receiver trades, making a move for someone like Johnston plausible. Other potential trade targets mentioned across the league include Jacksonville Jaguars' Brian Thomas Jr., Green Bay Packers' Dontayvion Wicks, and Baltimore Ravens' Rashod Bateman.
Contractual Considerations and Fifth-Year Option
Johnston's contract situation adds another layer to the trade discussions. According to Spotrac, he signed a four-year, $14.2 million deal that includes a $7.3 million signing bonus and $14.2 million in guaranteed money. In 2026, he is scheduled to earn a $2.6 million base salary with a $4.5 million cap hit and dead cap value.
FanSided's Alexander Insdorf reports that the Chargers will face a critical decision in May 2026 regarding Johnston's fifth-year option, projected to be worth $18 million. If declined, Johnston would become an unrestricted free agent after the 2026 season. Insdorf notes that while $18 million is reasonable for a WR2, Johnston has not yet secured a 1,000-yard season or a long-term commitment from Los Angeles.
Potential Scenarios and League-Wide Interest
Should the Chargers decline the fifth-year option, several scenarios could unfold. General Manager Joe Hortiz might retain Johnston and offer an extension later if his performance improves. Alternatively, the team could allow him to enter free agency in exchange for a compensatory pick or trade him as an expiring contract.
ESPN's Jeremy Fowler has identified Johnston as a potential trade target, alongside players like Baltimore's Rashod Bateman and Green Bay's Dontayvion Wicks. The 24-year-old receiver, standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 208 pounds, is coming off a breakout 2025 season, though his progress was temporarily hindered by a hamstring injury prior to Week 6.
Future Outlook and Speculation
Johnston was recently linked to the Geno Smith-led Jets, raising questions about whether he could become a favorite target for Smith in New York or remain a key weapon for Herbert in Los Angeles. Heavy Sports analyst Paul Esden Jr. describes the 2023 first-round pick as an attractive trade option, noting his 106 receptions, 1,446 receiving yards, and 16 total touchdowns over the past two seasons.
Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid predicts that most top receivers will be selected by Day 2 of the draft, which aligns with Mougey's strategy. With a history of completing 12 trades in just over a year, Mougey's approach could significantly impact Johnston's career trajectory. Ultimately, only time will reveal whether Johnston's future lies with the Chargers or another franchise seeking to unlock his full potential.
