What was supposed to be a routine preseason clash between the Los Angeles Chargers and Los Angeles Rams took a frightening turn on Saturday night.
Just minutes into the game, wide receiver Quentin Johnston went down after a devastating helmet-to-helmet hit, leaving players, coaches, and fans holding their breath.
The Hit That Changed Everything
On only the third play of the game, Johnston ran a route to catch a pass from quarterback Justin Herbert.
That’s when Rams defender Tanner Ingle delivered a forceful blow underneath Johnston’s facemask.
The collision not only knocked him out cold but also sent him crashing to the turf, where his head bounced off the ground.
The impact was so severe that Johnston displayed the unsettling “fencing” response — his arms stiffened in the air as he lay on his back.
Immediately, players from both sidelines dropped to one knee while medical staff rushed to his aid.
Signs of Movement Bring Relief
For a tense moment, it looked dire. Then came a sign of hope — Johnston began moving his arms and legs.
Soon after, he was able to sit up, and with assistance, he walked to the medical cart that took him off the field.
Cameras showed him holding his head as he was transported to the locker room and later to the hospital.
Official Word from the Chargers
Head coach Jim Harbaugh confirmed after the game that Johnston had suffered a concussion.
He explained that the hospital trip was mostly a precaution, stressing that the wide receiver was in stable condition.
Despite the reassurance, the sight of Johnston’s collapse remained heavy on the minds of teammates and fans alike.
Rams Edge Out Chargers in Tight Contest
As for the football itself, the Chargers ended up narrowly losing 23-22 to the Rams.
Quarterback Stetson Bennett had a strong performance for the Rams, but the bigger storyline of the night was Johnston’s health.
A Young Career Interrupted
The injury is a setback for the 23-year-old receiver, who turns 24 in September.
Last season, Johnston emerged as one of Herbert’s key targets, finishing with 55 catches on 91 attempts, racking up 711 yards and leading the team with eight touchdowns.
Since being drafted 21st overall in 2023 out of TCU, Johnston has totaled 93 career receptions for 1,142 yards and 10 touchdowns in just 32 regular-season games, with 21 starts.
The Chargers are hoping this concussion won’t derail the progress he has made as he continues to grow into his role as a top offensive weapon.
