The Los Angeles Chargers may be getting a key piece of their offense back at the right time.Â
As CBS Sports noted, wide receiver Quentin Johnston returned to the practice field Wednesday after missing last weekâs win over the Kansas City Chiefs.Â
This offers an encouraging sign as the Chargers prepare for Sundayâs matchup against the Dallas Cowboys.Â
Johnston has been dealing with a groin injury that dates back to last Friday.
He was spotted participating in practice, according to reports from ESPNâs Kris Rhim and The Athleticâs Daniel Popper.Â
This signals that his availability for Week 16 is once again trending in the right direction.
Quentin Johnston Injury UpdateÂ
Johnstonâs injury situation unfolded quickly last week.Â
He was added to Los Angelesâ injury report late in the week after being limited at Fridayâs practice.Â
He initially drew a questionable designation before ultimately being ruled out ahead of the Chargersâ victory over the Chiefs.
The late downgrade raised concerns about the severity of the groin issue, especially with Johnston unable to test it in game action.Â
Thatâs what makes Wednesdayâs development notable.Â
Johnstonâs return to the practice field suggests the injury is improving, even if heâs expected to remain limited early in the week.Â
The real determining factors will be his participation level at practice on Thursday and Friday.Â
If Johnston is able to increase his workload in those sessions, heâll have a legitimate chance to suit up against Dallas.Â
If not, the team may opt for caution once again.
His practice designations on Thursday and especially Friday will tell the story.Â
What a Potential Return Means for the Chargers
If Johnston is cleared to play, his return would give the Chargers another vertical element in an offense that continues to search for consistency.Â
Even though his production has been uneven, defenses still have to account for his size and downfield ability.Â
This can open space for other pass-catchers and the run game.Â
That said, fantasy managers may want to temper expectations.Â
Johnston has surpassed 50 receiving yards just once in his last eight appearances, making him a risky option despite the appealing matchup.Â
The Cowboysâ secondary has surrendered its share of explosive plays this season, which adds intrigue.
But volume and reliability have been issues for Johnston throughout the year.Â
From a real-football standpoint, even a limited Johnston could help stretch the field and give the Chargers more flexibility.Â
His presence forces defenses to respect the deep ball, something the Chiefs did not have to worry about last week.Â
Their offense only had 16 points and only two plays over 20 yards in the entire game.Â
Ultimately, Johnstonâs return to practice is a step in the right direction for the Chargers offense.Â
While his status for Sunday remains uncertain, the Chargers at least have reason for optimism heading into a critical matchup with Dallas.
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