Diontae Johnson’s Roller Coaster Season Culminates in Release from Texans
In a surprising yet telling move, the Houston Texans have released wide receiver Diontae Johnson just days before a crucial divisional matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs. This decision closes another chapter in what has been a tumultuous season for Johnson, who has been both traded and waived twice since the year began, navigating through four different teams.
Johnson joined the Texans late in the season after being claimed off waivers from the Baltimore Ravens on December 23. Despite the midseason transition, he managed to make an appearance in two critical games for Houston. During the regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans, Johnson contributed by catching two passes for 12 yards, a modest output in a high-stakes scenario.
His playoff contribution came during the Texans' wild-card victory over the Los Angeles Chargers. Although his impact was limited with just one catch for 12 yards, Johnson's presence on the field was felt. He participated in 16 offensive snaps, contributing approximately 22% of the team's plays during the game. However, with high competition for spots and the pressure of playoff performances, his efforts didn’t translate into lasting tenure with the team.
Before landing in Houston, Johnson’s season had already seen considerable movement. He started at the Carolina Panthers, from where he was traded to the Baltimore Ravens. This transaction involved Baltimore acquiring Johnson in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick, while sending a sixth-round draft pick back to the Panthers. However, his time with the Ravens was marred by a suspension in Week 15 for conduct detrimental to the team, a setback that undoubtedly influenced his subsequent release.
Despite his challenging season, Johnson's career statistics tell the story of a capable receiver with a history of performance. Over 77 NFL games, he has accumulated 391 receptions, over 4,363 yards, and 25 touchdowns. His standout year was 2021 when he earned a Pro Bowl selection representing the Pittsburgh Steelers, with a remarkable 107 receptions, 1,161 yards, and eight touchdowns. Such achievements underscore the potential that the Texans were hoping to tap into when they brought him on board.
With Johnson’s release, the Texans are now focused on solidifying their receiving corps as they continue their playoff journey. The team is looking towards other players such as John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson to fill the void. Nico Collins is set to lead the charge as the Texans' top receiver, having established himself as a reliable target throughout the season.
Johnson’s departure from Houston once again highlights the volatility and unpredictability of life in the NFL. While his journey this season has been anything but straightforward, his past accomplishments serve as a testament to his skill and resilience as a player. The revolving door Johnson experienced this year might yet open new opportunities, as teams continuously seek to refine and enhance their roster dynamics.
As the Texans prepare for their matchup against the Chiefs, they do so with an evolving roster, aiming to maximize their depth and exploit the talents of those ready to step up. Meanwhile, Diontae Johnson enters the offseason seeking stability and a chance to demonstrate the prowess that once secured him a spot among the league’s notable receivers.