Diontae Johnson's journey through the 2023 NFL season has been marked by a series of swift changes and unexpected turns. The Houston Texans' recent decision to release the wide receiver adds another chapter to his turbulent year. Johnson, who has played for multiple teams this season, found himself once again at a crossroads ahead of a crucial divisional game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
From Team to Team
Johnson's year began with the Pittsburgh Steelers and saw him move through several organizations, including the Carolina Panthers and Baltimore Ravens, before landing with the Texans. The move to Houston appeared as another fresh start. Claimed off waivers from the Ravens on December 23, his stint with the Texans was brief yet noteworthy.
During his time with Houston, Johnson contributed in two significant games. In the regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans, his performance included two receptions for 12 yards. Then, during the Texans' critical wild-card victory over the Los Angeles Chargers, Johnson was part of the action again. He caught one pass for 12 yards, spending 16 offensive snaps on the field, which meant he participated in approximately 22% of the team's plays during that vital matchup.
A Pro Bowl Talent Amidst Challenges
Despite these contributions, Johnson's departure underscores the challenges he has faced. Once a Pro Bowl selection in 2021 with the Steelers, where he amassed 107 receptions, 1,161 yards, and eight touchdowns, Johnson's current season has been a contrast. His career, marked by 391 receptions, over 4,363 yards, and 25 touchdowns across 77 games, speaks to his capacity as a formidable wide receiver. However, being traded twice and waived twice in one season reflects a period of instability.
His transfer from the Ravens to the Texans followed a suspension in Week 15 for conduct detrimental to the team. This incident may have played a role in the organization's decision to move on from him. Before joining the Ravens, Johnson was acquired from the Panthers in a midseason trade that involved an exchange of a fifth-round draft pick for a sixth-rounder, emphasizing how teams valued his potential contributions.
Adjusting the Lineup
In letting go of Johnson, the Texans are now eyeing other talents to bolster their receiver lineup as they advance deeper into the playoffs. John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson are among the players expected to take on larger roles. Meanwhile, Nico Collins emerges as the Texans' top receiver, positioned to lead them during these critical postseason games.
As Houston reconfigures its roster, the release of Johnson might open opportunities for the remaining receivers to shine further in the playoffs. Fans and analysts will undoubtedly watch how this change impacts the team's dynamics and performance against formidable opponents such as the Chiefs.
As Johnson departs Houston, his journey through the league continues to be a testament to the often unpredictable nature of professional football careers. Teams and players must continually adapt to remain competitive and aligned with their strategic goals. For Diontae Johnson, the search for a stable team environment might yet lead to new opportunities and successes in his already noteworthy NFL career.