In a series of strategic moves that reflect the fast-paced and often unpredictable nature of professional football, the Houston Texans have opted to waive wide receiver Diontae Johnson ahead of their crucial divisional-round matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs. The decision marks yet another chapter in Johnson's intriguing NFL journey this season, which has seen him don the jerseys of several teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers, Carolina Panthers, Baltimore Ravens, and most recently, the Texans.
A Peripatetic Season
Johnson's season began with promise, as he joined the Baltimore Ravens, only to be later traded to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for a draft pick swap involving a sixth and fifth-round selection. However, his time with the Panthers came to an abrupt end following a suspension for conduct deemed detrimental to the team. This paved the way for his waiver pickup by the Texans on December 23. During his brief stint in Houston, Johnson participated in two games, making modest contributions on the field.
Contributions on the Field
In the Texans' regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans, Johnson caught two passes totaling 12 yards. Although his contributions in the stat sheet were minimal, his role as a tactical player was demonstrated during the Wild Card game against the Los Angeles Chargers, where he was targeted once, catching a pass for another 12 yards. Johnson played 16 snaps, amounting to 22 percent of the offensive plays during that critical game, showcasing his ability to adapt quickly to new offensive schemes.
Unfulfilled Potential
Despite his productive 2021 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he was a Pro Bowl selection after amassing 107 receptions for 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns, Johnson's 2023 campaign has been characterized by transitions and team changes. This fluctuation has, in part, prevented him from reclaiming his form as one of the league's reliable receivers.
Looking Ahead
With the impending matchup against the Chiefs, Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans succinctly addressed the situation, stating, "With Diontae, unfortunately, it didn’t work out and we’re on to the Chiefs." As the Texans prepare to face one of their toughest opponents without the likes of Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell, a recalibration of their receiving corps becomes evident.
This game will see emerging talents such as John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson stepping up to bolster the offensive line-up, along with Nico Collins, who is expected to play a pivotal role. The Texans are relying on these players to provide the necessary depth and versatility in their receiving game against a formidable Kansas City defense.
For Diontae Johnson, this move can be seen as both a setback and an opportunity. While being waived disrupts his immediate career trajectory, it also opens the possibility for him to join another team that might benefit from his skills and experience. As the NFL landscape constantly shifts, teams in need of depth or dynamic playmaking might consider giving Johnson another chance to reignite his career.
As the Texans and Chiefs prepare to clash, the focus now shifts to the Texans' revamped receiving unit and their ability to adapt and overcome adversity. Meanwhile, Diontae Johnson awaits the next chapter in his professional football journey, hopeful for a more settled role in the future. The league, as it always does, watches closely.