Chargers News: Rookie WR Reminded LA's Scouts of Mike Williams in Pre-Draft Process
The entire pre-draft process was a rollercoaster for fans of the Los Angeles Chargers. First, the news of Austin Ekeler's trade request made it look very likely that their number one target would be getting the highly-coveted Bijan Robinson.
However, once it became clear that he was rising on draft boards, the attention shifted to a number of speedy receivers such as Zay Flowers and Jordan Addison. Certain insiders even thought LA would opt for a TE or just trade down to the second round.
But it looks like the only people who certainly knew what that number 21 pick would become were the Chargers themselves. We have just received a lengthy background story behind how LA came across Quentin Johnston and what made him stand out compared to other top prospects left on the board.
The Bolts' front office made it very clear that Johnston's draft stock was super high for them for reasons outside of just football. Obviously, he displayed physical and athletic capabilities that they believe will make him their WR of the future but their interest extended past that.
Tom Telesco along with other team scouts noticed how respectful the TCU product was off the jump and learned more about his military upbringing in the process. Kevin Kelly, the director of college scouting for the Chargers, went as far as to compare his first couple of conversations with Johnston to those he had when he discovered Mike Williams.
"Oh yeah, there really was [a good vibe]," said Kelly. "He's just a tremendous young man. It was reminiscent of Mike [Williams] when we interviewed, scouted and recruited him out of Clemson. He's just got a real positive vibe; confident guy like Mike. Players like that, you just want to find a way to get them on your team. The other 31 teams are watching the film and interviewing the same players. Quentin, he'll impress everybody."
(Via Chargers.com)
Even if Johnston does not get a huge opportunity to shine off the jump, I'm confident he'll continue to work and be ready when his time does come.