Diontae Johnson's Rollercoaster Season with the Texans and Beyond
Diontae Johnson's journey through the NFL this season has been a whirlwind, moving from team to team before ultimately being released by the Houston Texans. His departure comes just before an important divisional matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, marking yet another significant shift in a year filled with transitions for the wide receiver.
Johnson's time with the Texans, albeit brief, had its moments. After being claimed off waivers from the Baltimore Ravens on December 23, Johnson participated in two games for Houston. In the regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans, his contributions were modest but noteworthy—securing two catches that totaled 12 yards. However, it was during the Texans' wild-card victory over the Los Angeles Chargers that he landed another 12-yard reception. Despite being on the field for only 16 offensive snaps, these accounted for about 22% of the team's plays during that game, highlighting his potential impact even in a limited role.
Before his time with Houston, Johnson had stints with several other NFL teams this season, including the Pittsburgh Steelers, Carolina Panthers, and the Ravens. His journey with Baltimore began in October when the Ravens acquired him from the Panthers. The trade involved Baltimore offering a fifth-round draft pick in exchange for a sixth-round pick and Johnson, showcasing the Ravens' initial interest in his abilities.
Unfortunately, his tenure with the Ravens wasn't without its challenges. Johnson faced a suspension in Week 15 for conduct detrimental to the team, an incident that hinted at underlying issues. Shortly after, he was waived, further adding complexity to his turbulent season.
The recent release by the Texans is just the latest chapter in Johnson's year of trades and waivers. His career, however, tells a story of resilience and talent. Across 77 games, Johnson has amassed 391 receptions for more than 4,363 yards and has found the end zone 25 times. His prowess on the field was particularly evident during the 2021 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he earned a Pro Bowl selection. That year, he recorded an impressive 107 receptions, 1,161 yards, and eight touchdowns, cementing his status as a key offensive threat.
As the Texans look to fill the void left by Johnson, the focus shifts to talents such as John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson. Nico Collins emerges as the Texans' top receiver as they advance in the playoffs, a setting where offensive depth and versatility are crucial.
Johnson's career trajectory this season underscores the unpredictable nature of the NFL, where changes in team dynamics and individual performance can dramatically alter a player's journey. Yet, his track record reveals a player capable of significant contributions when the conditions are right. As the league progresses through the playoffs, the lessons from Johnson's season remain relevant, reminding teams and players alike of the importance of adaptability and resilience.