The Houston Texans made a surprising move on Tuesday by waiving wide receiver Diontae Johnson, just days before their important playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs. This decision comes after Johnson’s short stint with the team, where he struggled to find his place on the field. His release has raised eyebrows, especially after the team had high hopes for him following an injury to their star receiver Tank Dell.
What Led to Johnson’s Release?
Diontae Johnson was claimed off waivers from the Baltimore Ravens, hoping to provide a boost to the Texans’ offense after Dell suffered a serious knee injury. However, Johnson’s time in Houston was not as impactful as the Texans had hoped. He played in just two games, recording only three catches for 24 yards. After appearing visibly frustrated during a recent playoff victory, Coach DeMeco Ryans explained that the decision to release Johnson was simply because things “did not work out.”
Johnson’s Rollercoaster Journey This Season
This season has been quite a ride for Johnson. He started with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he was quite successful, and even made it to the Pro Bowl in 2021 with impressive stats: 107 receptions, 1,161 yards, and 8 touchdowns. After five seasons there, he was traded to the Carolina Panthers before moving on to the Ravens. His time with Baltimore was less than stellar, as he dealt with a one-game suspension for refusing to play, resulting in limited playing time.
Why the Texans Thought He Could Help
The Texans were optimistic that Johnson could step up after Dell’s injury left a big gap in their receiving corps. They saw potential in Johnson, believing his prior experience and talent could bolster their playoff chances. However, reality showed a different picture, as Johnson had difficulty making connections during games and was often sidelined.
What’s Next for Johnson?
Now that Johnson has cleared waivers, he is free to join any team in the NFL once again looking for a fresh start. After his ups and downs this season, many are wondering where he will land next. Despite the setbacks, Johnson’s past performance with the Steelers shows that he has the talent and skill to thrive in the right environment.
Looking Ahead for the Texans
As the Texans gear up for their crucial matchup against the Chiefs, they must now focus on finding receivers who can make an impact in the playoffs. They aim to build a strong game strategy without Johnson, who although could have been a key player, unfortunately did not fit into their plans. The Texans will be looking to other players to step up in his absence as they continue their playoff journey.
Diontae Johnson: A Player to Watch Next Season
Even with his struggles this season, many fans and analysts believe that Diontae Johnson still has much to offer in the NFL. His experience and talent might attract interest from other teams looking for a dynamic receiver. While his season has been rocky, the next chapter in Johnson’s career could still be bright with the right opportunity.
