The Chargers' offense is predicted to be one of the best units in the NFL.
Offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel has a plan in place and the pieces in place to lead the unit to an elite level. Led by Justin Herbert, the Chargers are in a great spot to do just that.
It starts and ends with Herbert, but it will be the others on offense that truly have the chance to elevate it, including fourth-year wide receiver Quentin Johnston.
Johnston is entering a crucial year, and with a chance to prove himself in 2026, ESPN's Ben Solak has named him the team's X-factor.
"Johnston is once again an enormously high-leverage player in the Chargers' offense," Solak wrote.
"Though much of the fantasy football attention is rightfully on Ladd McConkey, whom I anticipate
leading the Chargers in targets, Johnston could benefit most from coordinator Mike McDaniel's offense."
Head coach Jim Harbaugh believes Johnston will play a huge role for the team this Fall.
"I think Quentin Johnston is going to have a good year," Harbaugh said on the Pro Football Focus NFL show.
The 24-year-old is set to enter the final year of his four-year rookie deal, and it will be his biggest season yet. Johnston, the former first-round pick, has posted two consecutive seasons with eight receiving touchdowns.
Johnston is expected to shine in Mike McDaniel's offense. He has the chance to thrive in quick hitters, screens, and crossers designed for him to create yards after the catch, which is when he's at his best.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Chargers WR Quentin Johnson biggest X-factor heading into 2026
