6 months agoThe 2023 season was as forgettable as it gets for the young rookie out of TCU. Plagued by drops and creating minimal separation on routes, Johnston turned in 38 receptions (on 67 targets) for 431 yards and two touchdowns, amounting to one of the least productive first-round WR rookie seasons in recent memory. Johnston's mishaps may have spotlighted even more since he was thrust into a starting role after veterans Keenan Allen and Mike Williams went down with injuries, but he still left a lot to be desired. Both of those aforementioned studs are gone, which gives Johnston the inside track to lead this team in targets next season. New head coach Jim Harbaugh has a reputation for implementing run-heavy offenses, and while that may be the case again in 2024, Justin Herbert is one of the most talented quarterbacks in the NFL. It doesn't matter who is catching passes in this offense, if they are the top-option for a quarterback as talented as Herbert, there is considerable fantasy value to be had. Rookie wideout Ladd McConkey - a 2024 second round pick - could immediately take over as the guy, or fourth-year player Josh Palmer could finally take that big next step that many thought would happen this past season. With how much of this new offense is unknown, it's absolutely worth taking a shot at Johnston a round or two early in drafts this summer. He still oozes potential and has the makeup of an true alpha receiver.--Ryan J. Goodman