The Los Angeles Chargers decided to give Justin Herbert playing time in the preseason for the first time in his career on Saturday night.
On just the third play from scrimmage, right after connecting with Ladd McConkey on a 17-yard gain, he decided to take a deep shot to Quentin Johnston. Johnston got a hand on the ball but couldn't reel it in and before he could react, he was drilled by Rams safety Tanner Ingle.
Johnston lay motionless on the field for a bit before a cart was brought out to take him off. It was not the way the team was hoping to start the game.
Trending News (NFL): Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Quentin Johnston is being carted off the field vs. Los Angeles Rams after taking a hit to the head from Rams defensive back Tanner Ingle on the third play of the game. Thoughts and prayers are with Johnston. #NFL… https://t.co/KXOsBThf0R pic.twitter.com/jpSgk6qVKb
— Justin David Kish • Sports Journalist (@JustinDavidKish) August 16, 2025
The Chargers have already suffered several injuries this summer, none bigger than the crushing season-ending blow they were dealt when left tackle Rashawn Slater went down. Jom Harbaugh was so frustrated by the injuries that he cancelled a joint practice with the Rams and he looked totally dejected when Eric Rogers went down in last week's game with less than two minutes to play after he had a two-interception performance against the Saints.
READ: Trade packages for Chargers involving WR Quentin Johnston
Johnston will be evaluated by the medical staff and the hope is that he can suit up and be back on the field in the near future for the team. Harbaugh hopes he can get out of this third preseason game without anyone else getting hurt.
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