Houston Texans Move On From Diontae Johnson
In a surprising turn of events before their crucial divisional-round clash against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Houston Texans have decided to waive wide receiver Diontae Johnson. Head coach DeMeco Ryans made the announcement, signaling the team’s intention to focus on their upcoming challenge. "With Diontae, unfortunately, it didn’t work out and we’re on to the Chiefs," Ryans stated, underscoring the Texans' readiness to face Kansas City without Johnson.
Johnson's Short Stint with the Texans
Diontae Johnson's journey with the Texans was brief but eventful. Having been picked up by Houston on December 23 after being waived by the Baltimore Ravens, Johnson made appearances in just two games. Despite the limited time on the roster, Johnson managed to leave some impression statistically. In the regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans, he caught two passes totaling 12 yards, and during the Wild Card showdown with the Los Angeles Chargers, he recorded a single reception, also for 12 yards. Johnson was on the field for 16 offensive snaps, translating to about 22 percent of the Texans' offensive plays during the Wild Card game.
A Peripatetic Year for Johnson
The current season has been a whirlwind for Diontae Johnson, marked by numerous transitions between teams. He has donned jerseys for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Carolina Panthers, Baltimore Ravens, and finally, the Houston Texans within this single year. The journey saw him being traded by the Ravens to the Panthers, alongside a sixth-round pick, in exchange for a fifth-round pick. While these developments hinted at promising opportunities, his time on each team was curtailed by varying circumstances, including a suspension for conduct detrimental to the team prior to his stint with the Texans.
A Glimpse of Past Glory
Johnson, however, is no stranger to acknowledgment on the gridiron, having been a Pro Bowl receiver in 2021 during his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers. That season, he showcased his exceptional abilities, hauling in 107 passes for an impressive tally of 1,161 yards along with eight touchdowns. These standout performances earned him well-deserved accolades and cemented his reputation as a formidable receiver.
Texans' Challenge Ahead
As the Texans prepare to face the Chiefs, they will be without key wide receivers Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell, placing added pressure on the remaining crew. In lieu of Johnson’s involvement, receivers John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson are expected to bolster their efforts in supporting frontline receiver Nico Collins. This configuration presents a significant test for the Texans against a potent Kansas City squad.
The decision to waive Diontae Johnson may shape the dynamics of the Texans' offense, but it is also a clear statement of intent and focus by the coaching staff. As Ryans articulates, the Texans' forward momentum remains undeterred. With the next hurdle ahead, the Texans are poised to utilize their remaining arsenal to forge a path through the postseason.