Justin Herbert’s key weapon on Chargers turns heads with comments on Mike Williams’ retirement

Mike Williams’ unexpected announcement to retire from professional football caught both insiders and fans off guard. In fact, within the Los Angeles Chargers organization, they are still coming to terms with the decision made by one of Justin Herbert’s most trusted targets.

Now, the quarterback will have to rely on the talent of Quentin Johnston, who will be playing under Jim Harbaugh in the upcoming season. The young wide receiver was one of the players most visibly surprised by the decision of his now former teammate.

According to statements made to the media, the former TCU Horned Frogs standout made it clear that the team must now look ahead—though he couldn’t hide his surprise upon learning the news.

“Treat it like next man up. Him leaving was kinda unexpected, but we just gotta fill in the blank and keep moving,” Johnston stated per Alex Insdorf.

Quentin Johnston #1 of the Los Angeles Chargers warms up prior to playing the Houston Texans during the AFC Wild Card Playoffs at NRG Stadium on January 11, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

Additionally, when asked if he had any prior knowledge of Williams’ decision, Johnston was clear and to the point: “Personally, I didn’t know.”

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A key loss for the Chargers’ offense

Williams’ sudden decision to retire ahead of the upcoming NFL season was a tough blow for the Chargers, who were undoubtedly counting on the veteran’s presence starting in Week 1.

Disappointment quickly spread throughout the Los Angeles facilities, as the team will now have to restructure its plans in light of his absence. Several others expressed their frustration over the unexpected turn of events.

“Definitely disappointed,” the offensive coordinator Greg Roman said recently to the press. “I enjoyed my time with Mike… Just really happy with him for the next stage of his life.”

Exploring the Chargers’ offensive alternatives

Justin Herbert enters the season with a revamped receiving corps, offering him a fresh array of targets. Quentin Johnston will look to build on his previous campaigns and become a more consistent deep threat.

Complementing him is Ladd McConkey, whose precise route-running and ability to create separation should quickly make him a reliable option in the short and intermediate game. Adding to the mix is Tre Harris, a recently signed receiver who brings his own set of skills to the fold, giving Herbert a diverse group of pass-catchers to distribute the ball to.