Chargers are almost certainly stuck footing the bill for Quentin Johnston in 2027

Bolt Beat argues that the Los Angeles Chargers are almost certainly locked into paying wide receiver Quentin Johnston nearly $16.5 million in 2027. After general manager Joe Hortiz and the front office exercised his fifth-year option, the writer believes Johnston's underwhelming on-field production makes trading him before the deadline or during the upcoming offseason nearly impossible.

Johnston has recorded just 13 receptions for 260 yards and one touchdown through seven games in 2026 under Mike McDaniel's offense. While Los Angeles holds sufficient cap space to absorb the salary, the writer stresses that paying Johnston limits resources needed for impending roster extensions and other positional upgrades.