Texans Release Diontae Johnson Ahead of Chiefs Matchup
In a surprising move, the Houston Texans have released wide receiver Diontae Johnson right before their critical divisional clash against the Kansas City Chiefs. Johnson, a late-season acquisition for the Texans, had been picked up off waivers from the Baltimore Ravens just last December 23. His brief stint in Houston saw him participate in only two games.
Short Tenure with the Texans
Johnson's time on the field for Houston was limited. He made his mark in the regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans where he managed to secure two receptions for a total of 12 yards. During the Texans' wild-card triumph over the Los Angeles Chargers, Johnson caught a single pass which also went for 12 yards. His contribution during this playoff game included participation in 16 offensive snaps, which constituted roughly 22% of the team’s plays.
A Season Full of Transitions
An NFL journeyman of sorts this season, Johnson has worn the jersey for numerous teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers, Carolina Panthers, and Baltimore Ravens, all within a span of less than a year. The Ravens had added Johnson to their roster by trading a fifth-round draft pick to the Panthers in exchange for Johnson and a sixth-round draft pick. However, his time with Baltimore wasn't without controversy, as he faced suspension in Week 15 due to conduct detrimental to the team.
Throughout the challenges of this season, Johnson has been both traded twice and waived twice, a testament to the tumultuous nature of his NFL journey this year. Despite these shifts, he has managed to compile impressive career statistics featuring 391 receptions, over 4,363 yards, and 25 touchdowns across 77 games.
Former Pro Bowl Caliber
Johnson’s professional highlights include a noteworthy tenure with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2021, marking one of the high points of his career. That season, he registered 107 receptions, 1,161 yards, and eight touchdowns, showcasing his capability as a top-tier receiver.
Texans' Future Without Johnson
With Johnson's departure, the Texans are focusing on reshaping their receiving corps with a blend of young talent and veteran presence. John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson are among those in line to fill the void left by Johnson’s exit. Meanwhile, Nico Collins stands out as the primary receiving threat as Houston continues its playoff campaign.
This release underlines the team's strategy to pivot towards a unit that can adequately support their postseason ambitions. As the playoffs progress, it will be crucial for the Texans to capitalize on their current strengths and integrate emerging talents into their offensive scheme.