Joe Hortiz Has Faith in a Second-Year Jump From A First-Round Selection

New GM Joe Hortiz believes in a young playmaker taking a jump in 2024.
Feb 27, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Los Angeles Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz during the NFL
Feb 27, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Los Angeles Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz during the NFL / Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
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The Los Angeles Chargers have undergone a massive overhaul this offseason. It started with the hiring of Jim Harbaugh and Joe Hortiz.

It continued when the Chargers decided to release WR Mike Williams and trade Keenan Allen due to salary cap reasons.

Heading into the NFL Draft, the Chargers WR room leaves a lot to be desired. They currently have Quentin Johnston, Joshua Palmer, Simi Fehoko, and Keelan Doss as the other WRs on the roster.

That isn't to appealing to the eye but Hortiz is confident in Johnston's ability to take a jump next year.

In an interview on the team website, Hortiz gave the former TCU product a voice of confidence. He said, "But he flashed some really impressive traits and the good thing is when you’re looking at your roster, you’re looking at it all the time, you’re watching the film all the time. Every time you put on the tape, you see the talent and I expect him to make the jump. I know we have the right coaches to help him make the jump. I feel good about the guys that are here.”

Chargers News: Joe Hortiz Has Faith in Quentin Johnston

Johnston struggled immensely in his rookie season, logging just 38 receptions for 431 yards, and two scores.

The 2023 first-round pick just couldn't seem to find his footing last year but with a new coaching staff in Los Angeles, Hortiz has the confidence in Johnston turning the corner.

With the lack of playmakers on the outside, Johnston will have the opportunity to become a focal point of the offense.

Regardless, the Chargers need to continue adding talent to improve their chances of winning the division to catch the Kansas City Chiefs but according to FanDuel Sportsbook, Los Angeles is +370 underdogs to win the AFC West. If you want to take lock-in of these odds, head over to FanDuel Sportsbook and claim your sign-up bonus.

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