Diontae Johnson Waived by Texans Ahead of Chiefs Clash
In a surprising turn of events just before their critical divisional-round matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Houston Texans have decided to waive wide receiver Diontae Johnson. This unexpected move comes as a jolt to NFL fans and analysts alike, given Johnson's recent NFL tour with numerous teams and his past accolades.
Johnson's journey this season has been nothing short of a whirlwind. Starting with the Pittsburgh Steelers, moving to the Carolina Panthers, then to the Baltimore Ravens, and finally landing with the Texans on December 23, his tenure in Houston appears to have been fleeting. The wide receiver managed to participate in two games for the Texans, showcasing glimpses of his capabilities but ultimately not securing a long-term spot.
During his brief stint with Houston, Johnson made his presence felt in the regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans, where he caught two passes, totaling 12 yards. The following Wild Card game against the Los Angeles Chargers saw him being targeted once, successfully catching a 12-yard pass. Despite playing 16 offensive snaps, which accounted for 22 percent of the offensive plays in that game, Johnson's contributions were perhaps too modest to cement his position with the team.
A Tumultuous Year Across Teams
This season has been particularly eventful for Johnson, whose career trajectory has seen him navigate through four different teams. Earlier in the year, Johnson was traded by the Baltimore Ravens to the Carolina Panthers. This trade involved a strategic exchange, with the Ravens sending Johnson and a sixth-round pick in return for a fifth-round pick from the Panthers. However, his time with Carolina was also cut short following off-field issues that led to a suspension for conduct deemed detrimental to the team.
Such disciplinary concerns likely foreshadowed Johnson's short-lived tenure with Houston. After being waived by Baltimore, Houston claimed him off the waiver wire, perhaps hoping to benefit from his previous Pro Bowl-level performance seen in 2021 with the Steelers. During that standout season, Johnson amassed 107 receptions, 1,161 yards, and eight touchdowns, earning him recognition as a top-tier receiver. However, replicating such success has become increasingly elusive for Johnson this year.
Texans' Preparations Amidst Roster Changes
As the Texans gear up for their critical matchup against a formidable Kansas City Chiefs squad, they will do so without not only Diontae Johnson but also other key wide receivers Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell. This leaves a significant responsibility on the shoulders of the remaining receiving corps, including John Metchie III, Robert Woods, Xavier Hutchinson, and Nico Collins, who will be pivotal in supporting the Texans' aerial attack.
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans, when asked about the decision to waive Johnson, commented, "With Diontae, unfortunately, it didn’t work out and we’re on to the Chiefs." This statement underscores the focus and urgency the Texans are channeling towards their impending challenge against one of the league's most consistent playoff contenders.
Looking Forward
The Texans face a daunting task in Kansas City, especially with a depleted wide receiver lineup. The Chiefs have consistently proven themselves as postseason stalwarts, making every game plan and receiver play crucial for Houston's aspirations. For Diontae Johnson, this latest waiver adds another chapter to his turbulent season, leaving his next professional move uncertain.
As the Texans move forward, questions linger about how they will fill the void left by these absences. Meanwhile, Johnson, once a Pro Bowl receiver, may find himself looking to start anew, once again, perhaps hoping for another opportunity to showcase his skills at the high level he once maintained.
For Texans fans and NFL observers, the waiver decision adds an intriguing layer to Houston’s playoff dynamics. As the game against the Chiefs looms, the focus remains steadfast on how the Texans adapt and overcome the challenges presented by their evolving roster.