Texans Waive Diontae Johnson Ahead of Clash with Chiefs
In a move that has raised eyebrows ahead of their pivotal divisional-round match-up, the Houston Texans announced that they have waived wide receiver Diontae Johnson. This decision comes in the wake of Johnson's brief tenure with the team, having signed with the Texans on December 23 after being released by the Baltimore Ravens.
Despite limited time to establish himself in Houston, Johnson managed to make modest contributions on the field. He participated in two games for the Texans, catching two passes for 12 yards in the regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans. During the Wild Card game against the Los Angeles Chargers, Johnson was targeted once, securing a pass for another 12 yards. On that occasion, he played 16 snaps, covering 22 percent of the offensive plays, showcasing flashes of his potential.
The Journey So Far
It's been a tumultuous season for Johnson, who has worn the jerseys of four different NFL teams in the current calendar year. Before joining the Texans, Johnson's journey took him through stints with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Carolina Panthers, and Baltimore Ravens. His move from the Ravens to the Panthers was marked by a trade that included a sixth-round pick in exchange for a fifth-round pick.
However, his journey with the Panthers was short-lived, as he faced a suspension due to conduct detrimental to the team. This incident eventually led to his arrival in Houston, yet his tenure there has now ended prematurely.
A Brief Stint with Houston
Although Johnson made a mark in professional football when he secured a Pro Bowl selection during the 2021 season with the Steelers—an accolade achieved by catching 107 passes for 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns—his recent performances have not matched those heights. Johnson’s impact in Houston may have been fleeting, but it provides a snapshot of the challenges faced by players on the periphery striving to find stability in the NFL.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans acknowledged the situation with a concise statement: "With Diontae, unfortunately, it didn’t work out and we’re on to the Chiefs." Ryans’ approach underscores the tough decisions teams face as they make strategic choices that ensure they field their strongest possible lineup.
A Challenging Task Ahead for the Texans
The Texans are set to challenge the Kansas City Chiefs without two of their key receivers: Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell. This leaves the team reliant on the likes of John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson to support leading receiver Nico Collins. These changes in the roster could prove significant as the Texans prepare to face a formidable Chiefs team known for its potent offense and strategic prowess.
Ryans and his coaching staff have the tough task of regrouping and ensuring the remaining players step up to fill the void left by Diggs, Dell, and now Johnson. The matchup against the Chiefs demands nothing short of excellence, as Houston seeks to advance further into the postseason.
With the stakes high and the pressure mounting, the Texans must rally together to overcome the adversity posed by these unforeseen challenges. In the fast-paced, ever-changing world of professional football, adaptable teams often find success despite adversity. The Texans’ upcoming performance will total up to how well they embrace and manage these changes.