Football Bio –
Johnston was a big-play receiver at TCU and a central part of the Horned Frogs' run to the 2022 national championship game. He earned first-team All-Big 12 recognition and was selected No. 21 overall by the Chargers in 2023. His NFL role has grown around vertical routes, boundary targets and yards after the catch. Pre-draft testing: 4.49 and 4.51-second 40s at TCU's pro day after posting a 40.5-inch vertical and 11-foot-2 broad jump at the 2023 NFL Combine. 2026 context: Johnston enters 2026 as one of the Chargers' two most experienced wideouts and a starting boundary target.
HEIGHT
6' 2"
WEIGHT
208
EXPERIENCE
4 yrs
COLLEGE
TCU
2026 Outlook
Johnston enters Week 1 as one of the Chargers' primary outside receivers. With the roster battle behind him, the 2026 focus is on turning his size and vertical ability into more consistent week-to-week production in McDaniel's quick-strike offense.
Career Highlights
Drafted in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, he has developed into a premier vertical threat and boundary playmaker known for his massive frame and exceptional yards-after-catch capability. TCU's leading big-play receiver during its 2022 national-title run, Johnston earned first-team All-Big 12 honors before going No. 21 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. His NFL production climbed in 2024 and 2025, including eight receiving touchdowns in each season and 735 yards in 2025.
Personal Life
Johnston was born in Temple, Texas, and is the son of Army veterans Carl and Sherry Johnston. He has spoken often about the discipline and respect his parents instilled in him, crediting their military background for shaping his approach to life and football. His younger brother Xavier and the sacrifices made by his family were important parts of his path from Temple High School to TCU and the NFL, and Johnston has also stayed involved with youth football and community activities.