The Houston Texans made the surprising decision to waive wide receiver Diontae Johnson on Tuesday, just two games into his time with the team. This move follows a season filled with challenges for Johnson, who has found it tough to make an impact since jumping from team to team.
Looking Back: Johnson’s Journey
Diontae Johnson started the 2024 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he showcased impressive skills over five seasons. However, his journey quickly took turns that led him to three different teams this year. Johnson was traded from the Carolina Panthers to the Baltimore Ravens in October and then claimed off waivers by the Texans shortly before Christmas. Unfortunately for Johnson, his time with each team was less than smooth, filled with struggles both on and off the field.
Frustration and Limited Playing Time
During his short stay with the Texans, Johnson expressed disappointment about his role. In the team’s recent playoff victory over the Los Angeles Chargers, he played for only 15 out of 70 offensive snaps and was targeted just once. His performance consisted of three catches for a measly 24 yards across two games. The frustration was palpable in the locker room, where Johnson reportedly voiced his concerns about not receiving enough opportunities.
The Texans’ Playoff Push
This waiver decision comes at a crucial time for the Texans as they prepare for their divisional round playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs. Coach DeMeco Ryans mentioned that the move was needed, stating it simply didn’t work out between the team and Johnson. With their eyes set on a championship run, the Texans are making strategic adjustments to strengthen their roster.
From Pro Bowl to Waiver Wire
Just a few seasons ago, Johnson was earning Pro Bowl honors with the Steelers, where he caught 107 passes for over 1,100 yards in a single season. However, the last couple of years have seen him struggling for both playing time and production. After being suspended for refusing to play a game for the Ravens, his situation only became more complicated, ultimately leading to his release and a brief chance with the Texans.
Numbers Tell the Story
| Team | Games Played | Receptions | Yards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pittsburgh Steelers | 5 Seasons | 391 | 4,363 |
| Carolina Panthers | 10 | 30 | 257 |
| Baltimore Ravens | 4 | 1 | 6 |
| Houston Texans | 2 | 3 | 24 |
What’s Next for Johnson?
With the Texans’ recent decision, Diontae Johnson becomes an unrestricted free agent, looking for his fourth team in one season. Unsurprisingly, his ups and downs this year may raise some questions for potential teams. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see where Johnson lands next and if he can reclaim the potential everyone once saw in him.