As the NFL Draft approaches, the Los Angeles Chargers possess a few players who could potentially become trade assets. However, the team’s leadership, including new head coach Jim Harbaugh, has seemingly taken one name off the table, suggesting that offensive lineman Trey Pipkins will remain with the team and compete for a role.
Analyst Calls For Los Angeles Chargers Moving On From Quentin Johnston
This leaves the door open for speculation regarding other potential trade candidates on the Chargers’ roster. Ralph Vacchiano of Fox Sports recently identified wide receiver Quentin Johnston as the team’s most valuable trade chip.
Vacchiano acknowledges the difficulty in moving on from a recent first-round draft pick, especially considering Johnston’s youth at 23 and his desirable physical attributes of 6-foot-4 and 215 pounds, which suggest significant untapped potential.
Vacchiano wrote, “It’s really hard to justify giving up on this first-round pick, even if he hasn’t played up to that level just yet. He’s still only 23 and he’s 6-foot-4, 215 pounds, so there’s real hope that there’s a lot of upside left for a player who topped out at 55 catches, 711 yards and 8 touchdowns last year.
But remember, he wasn’t drafted by the current Chargers regime. They also just brought back Mike Williams (6-4, 218) to fill the big receiver role, and they clearly trust Ladd McConkey, last year’s rookie sensation, more. If Jim Harbaugh is ready to move on, surely someone will see his size and skill and be willing to make a big bet on his potential.”
Entering the draft, the Chargers still have a need for a reliable third receiving option to complement Ladd McConkey and the returning Mike Williams, and the tight end position also remains a significant area of concern.
While Johnston, who has two years remaining on his rookie contract through the 2026 season, could still develop into that third receiver, his performance thus far has been inconsistent. Despite recording a career-high eight touchdown receptions last year, Johnston has struggled with untimely drops, catching just 93 of his 158 targets.
Additionally, his route running has yet to fully evolve. Vacchiano’s analysis suggests that the new Chargers regime, having not drafted Johnston and having brought back a similar physical presence in Williams while clearly valuing McConkey, might be willing to part ways with the young receiver if a suitable trade offer materializes, banking on another team being willing to invest in his raw talent and potential.
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