Diontae Johnson's Short Stint with the Texans Comes to an Abrupt End
In a surprising roster move, the Houston Texans have released wide receiver Diontae Johnson just days before their crucial divisional playoff matchup against the formidable Kansas City Chiefs. The release marks the end of a brief tenure with the Texans that began when they claimed him off waivers from the Baltimore Ravens on December 23.
An Eventful Year for Johnson
The 2023 season has been nothing short of turbulent for Johnson. He began the year with the Pittsburgh Steelers, continued with the Carolina Panthers, and most recently spent time with the Ravens before landing with the Texans. His journey has involved two trades and two waivers, reflecting the volatility that athletes often face in professional sports. Baltimore originally acquired him from the Panthers in October through a trade involving a fifth-round draft pick, with a sixth-round pick sent back in exchange.
While with the Ravens, Johnson was suspended in Week 15 for conduct deemed detrimental to the team, a setback that perhaps foreshadowed his eventual release by the Texans. These off-field issues, coupled with the constant relocations, undoubtedly played a role in shaping the narrative of his season.
Contributions in Houston
During his tenure with Houston, Johnson featured in two games. In the team's regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans, he managed to catch two passes, accumulating 12 receiving yards. His contribution in the Texans' wild-card victory over the Los Angeles Chargers also included a single catch for 12 yards. Though his statistics may seem modest, his presence on the field for 16 offensive snaps represented approximately 22% of the team's plays in that crucial game.
A Look at Johnson's Career
Despite the recent upheavals, Johnson boasts a respectable career. Over 77 games, he has amassed 391 receptions, accumulating over 4,363 yards and scoring 25 touchdowns. His career highlight came in 2021 when he earned a Pro Bowl selection with the Pittsburgh Steelers, recording a notable season of 107 catches for 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns, undeniably establishing himself as a reliable target.
The Texans' Offensive Strategy Moving Forward
With Johnson's departure, the Texans are keen on reinforcing their receiving corps. Emerging talent like John Metchie III, seasoned veteran Robert Woods, and promising newcomer Xavier Hutchinson are poised to step up to the challenge. Nico Collins remains the standout receiver for the Texans as they progress further into the playoffs, taking on an increased role as the team aims for success in the postseason.
The Texans' decision to release Johnson before a high-stakes game against the Chiefs raises questions about the franchise's strategic direction and the internal dynamics influencing such decisions. Whether Johnson will find a new home in the volatile climate of professional football remains to be seen.
As the Texans aim to continue their playoff run, they do so without a wide receiver who, despite a brief stint, now adds to the unfolding storylines of both his career and the NFL season.