Diontae Johnson's Tumultuous Season Continues with Release from Texans
Unexpected Departure from Houston
In a surprising turn of events, Diontae Johnson has been released by the Houston Texans. This move comes just before a critical divisional matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, leaving many fans and analysts speculating about the strategy behind this decision. Johnson, who had been claimed by the Texans off waivers from the Baltimore Ravens shortly before Christmas on December 23, now finds himself without a team once more.
A Season Marked by Uncertainty
Johnson's journey during this season has been anything but steady. Since the start of the year, he has donned uniforms for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Carolina Panthers, Baltimore Ravens, and most recently, the Houston Texans. His departure from the Texans follows a brief two-game stint, where he contributed modestly on the field. In the final game of the regular season against the Tennessee Titans, Johnson caught two passes for a total of 12 yards. During the Texans' wild-card triumph over the Los Angeles Chargers, he managed just one catch worth 12 yards, while playing on 16 offensive snaps, about 22% of the team’s plays for that game.
The Journey and Struggles
Johnson's turbulent season saw him traded twice and waived twice, reflecting the uncertain nature of his career this year. Initially, the Baltimore Ravens brought him over from the Panthers in a trade that involved exchanging draft picks—a fifth-round pick for the Panthers and a sixth-round pick for the Ravens. While with Baltimore, he faced suspension in Week 15 due to conduct deemed detrimental to the team, adding another layer to his challenging year. Johnson's journey this season encapsulates the highs and lows many players experience over a career, not just a season.
Looking Back at a Promising Career
Lest fans forget, Diontae Johnson boasts an impressive career record. With 391 receptions, accumulating over 4,363 yards and scoring 25 touchdowns over 77 games, his talent is undeniable. His skills shone brightly during his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers, particularly in 2021 when he earned a Pro Bowl selection. That season, Johnson delivered standout performances, securing 107 receptions for 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns.
Texans' Strategy Moving Forward
With Johnson's departure, the Texans look to their cadre of receivers to fill the void. Talented players like John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson are poised to step up. Meanwhile, Nico Collins remains the top receiver as the Texans navigate their playoff run.
Ultimately, the league’s fast-paced and ever-changing dynamics mean that while Diontae Johnson's release is notable, it's also a testament to the demanding and unpredictable nature of the NFL. As the Texans gear up for their playoff challenges, the team and its followers will watch closely to see how this story unfolds and what comes next for Johnson in his professional journey.