Amanda Perobelli/Reuters via Imagn Images

Chargers Keenan Allen Had Words For Quentin Johnston After Big Night Against Chiefs

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Rex Villas | Last updated Sep 6, 2025 12:26 AM ET

Justin Herbert and the Los Angeles Chargers are off to a great start to their 2025 NFL campaign.

On Friday, the Chargers sent a strong message across the NFL by defeating the reigning AFC champions and last season's Super Bowl runner-up Kansas City Chiefs. With Herbert leading the attack, Los Angeles came away with a 27-21 victory at Corinthians Arena in São Paulo, Brazil.

It was also a great way for veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen to start his second stint with the Chargers.

Allen, who was signed by LA to a one-year, $3.02 million deal in August, recorded 68 receiving yards and a touchdown on seven catches and 10 targets. But the biggest performer of them all downfield among Chargers players was none other than third-year pro Quentin Johnston.

Much-maligned for his underwhelming first two seasons in the NFL, Johnston put together a memorable showing against the Chiefs, pacing Los Angeles with 79 receiving yards and two scores on five receptions and seven targets.

The former TCU Horned Frogs star found the end zone in the opening period to put the Chargers on the board first. He extended LA's lead in the fourth quarter with another TD grab from Herbert.

Johnston's big night earned him some kind words from Allen.

“They been sleeping on him, man,” Allen said of Johnston, per Fernando Ramirez of The Sporting Tribune.

Interestingly enough, Johnston had one of the best performances of his NFL career on the eve of his birthday. He turns 24 years old this Saturday, so his outing against Kansas City had a personal touch to it.

As a team, the Chargers outgained Kansas City in total yards, 394-347. It was a terrific night overall for Los Angeles' passing game, with Herbert spearing the ball around to his top targets.

Johnston now has a couple of two-touchdown games in the NFL. He had such a game during the Chargers' 26-3 win over the Carolina Panthers on the road in 2024. Over his first two seasons in the league, Johnston had 1,142 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns on 93 catches.

The hope for Los Angeles is that Johnston will be able to sustain his form, as the Chargers franchise looks to win the AFC West for the first time since 2009, when it was still based in San Diego.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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