Texans Release Diontae Johnson Amid Playoff Run
In a surprising move just before a pivotal divisional playoff matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Houston Texans have released wide receiver Diontae Johnson. This decision comes after Johnson's brief tenure with the team, which concluded just weeks after being claimed off waivers from the Baltimore Ravens on December 23.
Johnson's time with the Texans was short-lived but not without its moments. In his stint, he played two games, making notable contributions including the regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans. There, he managed two receptions for a total of 12 yards. In the Texans' subsequent wild-card victory over the Los Angeles Chargers, Johnson added to his postseason resume with a 12-yard reception, taking part in 16 offensive snaps that accounted for nearly 22% of the team's offensive plays during that game.
A Turbulent Season of Moves
The 2023 NFL season has been a whirlwind for Johnson, marked by transitions between multiple teams. He began the year with the Pittsburgh Steelers, followed by short tenures with the Carolina Panthers and the Baltimore Ravens. In October, the Ravens acquired Johnson from the Panthers, trading a fifth-round pick in exchange for a sixth-round draft pick. However, Johnson's time with the Ravens was marred by controversy, culminating in a suspension in Week 15 for conduct detrimental to the team, which eventually led to his waiver claim by the Texans.
Such frequent moves are not unfamiliar to veterans of the league. Johnson's career has seen him traded twice and waived twice just this season, a testament to the fluid and often unpredictable nature of NFL roster management. Despite the movement, Johnson has demonstrated his abilities on the field, having accumulated significant career stats with 391 receptions, over 4,363 yards, and 25 touchdowns across 77 games.
Past Glory with the Steelers
Amidst his career journey, one of the standout chapters remains his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers. In 2021, Johnson was a crucial part of their offensive formation, earning a Pro Bowl selection that year. His impressive performance included 107 receptions, 1,161 yards, and eight touchdowns, marking him as one of the premier receivers at that time. However, as the NFL often proves to be a game of "what have you done for me lately," Johnson's performance with subsequent teams failed to replicate the same success.
New Directions for the Texans
The release of Johnson signifies a shift in strategies for the Texans as they steer through the playoffs. The team is reorienting their focus towards other talents on the roster such as John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson. Underlining their receiving corps is Nico Collins, emerging as the top target for the Texans as they continue their postseason journey. The Texans appear committed to building around these younger and potentially more reliable pass catchers, setting a course that excludes Johnson from future plans.
As the Texans face the next challenge against the Chiefs, the decision to release Johnson may also reflect a broader strategy focusing on team dynamics and chemistry. Ensuring cohesion amongst the players is pivotal, especially in playoff football, where every yard can make a difference. While Johnson's on-field potential is undeniable, the Texans seem to prioritize a harmonious and united locker room moving forward.
The unfolding narrative of Diontae Johnson's career presents a fascinating case study of the highs and lows inherent in professional sports. Although his time with the Texans has ended, his journey in the NFL may not be over yet. Opportunities for redemption and reinvention are ever-present in the league, and Johnson's next chapter is one to watch closely.
For now, the Texans continue to prepare for the Chiefs without Johnson, as they hope to extend their playoff run with a retooled roster and a renewed sense of focus and team synergy.