Chargers Jim Harbaugh is betting on a big season from his WR core

Amid all the talk this offseason that the Chargers needed to upgrade their wide receiver room, the Bolts made a calculated decision.It essentially involved betting on themselves.By wagering on the people already in the building — specifically Quentin Johnston, for whom they picked up his fifth-year option — and their scouting department, which plucked Brenen Thompson out of Mississippi State in the fourth round of the NFL draft, they sent a decisive message that everything they needed was within their walls.In particular, Johnston, Ladd McConkey, and Tre’ Harris.California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.

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Never miss a story Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh doubled down on that bet Tuesday on the first day of his club’s three-day mandatory minicamp.“We have three elite receivers,” Harbaugh said boldly.In fact, Harbaugh predicted Johnston would break out this season. “I think he can have a career year,” Harbaugh said.“He’s been aces all offseason.”Johnston has yet to exceed 55 catches or 735 yards in a single season over his first three years, but between the club’s decision to pick up his fifth-year option and Harbaugh’s lofty praise, he feels he’s set up for a major step forward.“It adds a lot of confidence,” said Johnston, who feels the validation the club gave him has created a sense of freedom to take his game to a new level.At the risk of saying it, Harbaugh better hope that is truly the case.Aside from the Chargers’ offensive line, no positional group is under more of a microscope than the wide receivers, who now need to reward their coach’s conviction with the type of difference-making production that can lift a good Chargers offense into an elite one.From Week 1 right on into the playoffs and beyond.And in that regard, the wide receiver...