Week 2 Result: Won at Carolina 26-3

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Quentin Johnston has received more than his fair share of criticism since being drafted in the first round in 2023. But earlier in the summer, Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh told reporters those critics could win up eating their words this year.

“I just think he got a bad rap,” Harbaugh said. “I look at some of the clips coming out of training camp last year. You know, whatever it was, it just seemed like in somebody’s mind he’s been a disappointment. He hasn’t been at all in my eyes. I see a big, fast, strong, he’s stronger, that’s a piece that’s really been addressed in the offseason with Coach Herbert. And Quentin, just getting stronger. At that speed, the agility, his ability to catch the ball, I mean I’ve seen him pluck it out of the air. He’s as good as anybody doing it. But combining that speed and agility, getting that strength component to go along with it.”

Johnston wasn’t the only “disappointing” player who showed out in Charlotte. The NFL career of running back J.K. Dobbins has been marred by injuries, but the former Ohio State star sailed past 100 yards on the ground for the second time in as many games.

It’s not all smiles for the 2-0 Chargers, though. As the team stays on the East Coast ahead of next week’s trip to Pittsburgh, there are questions about the health of quarterback Justin Herbert, who went for X-rays after being rolled up in the third quarter.

“Jim Harbaugh is doing it again. The man simply knows how to coach,” Sobleski said. “The Chargers are off to a 2-0 start despite a lingering foot injury to Herbert and questions about the squad’s roster makeup. Certain surprises on offense are allowing the Chargers to be explosive despite major question marks at the skill positions entering the season. Let’s not forget: The Chargers moved on from Austin Ekeler, Keenan Allen and Mike Williams this offseason. Dobbins leads the NFL in rushing with 266 yards at a staggering 9.9 yards per carry. Also, Johnston showed signs of real progress Sunday with two touchdown grabs against the Panthers.”