Diontae Johnson's Stint with the Texans Comes to an End
In a surprising roster move just ahead of a pivotal divisional clash against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Houston Texans have released wide receiver Diontae Johnson. The decision marks yet another chapter in what has been a turbulent season for the veteran pass-catcher.
Johnson's journey to the Texans was as brief as it was eventful. Claimed off waivers from the Baltimore Ravens on December 23, he was thrust into action during a key part of the Texans' season. Over his short tenure with the team, Johnson took the field in two games, contributing modest gains in this high-pressure environment. In the regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans, he snagged two passes, advancing the ball a total of 12 yards. During the Texans’ thrilling wild-card victory over the Los Angeles Chargers, he added another 12 receiving yards on a single catch. These efforts came as part of his participation in 16 offensive snaps, forming about 22% of the team’s plays during that game.
Before his brief stopover in Houston, Johnson had already experienced a whirlwind of transactions throughout the league. The NFL journeyman was part of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Carolina Panthers, and Baltimore Ravens, all within the same NFL season. The Ravens had earlier absorbed him into their ranks from the Panthers by exchanging draft picks, sending over a fifth-round pick for a sixth-round pick in return. His time in Baltimore was not entirely smooth, as he faced a suspension in Week 15 for conduct detrimental to the team, a disciplinary action that further complicated his season.
Despite these challenges, Johnson’s career has not gone without commendation. Across 77 career games, he has accumulated impressive statistics, with 391 receptions, over 4,363 yards, and 25 touchdowns. Notably, his 2021 campaign with the Pittsburgh Steelers was a career high, resulting in a Pro Bowl selection where he racked up 107 receptions, 1,161 yards, and eight touchdowns. These figures underscore the potential he brought to each of his teams, even as he navigated frequent changes in his playing environment.
The Texans, now in the playoff push, are turning the page rather quickly. As they aim to bolster their receiving corps without Johnson, the team is looking towards other talents such as John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson to step up. Notably, Nico Collins remains the standout receiver and key offensive weapon as the Texans strive to maintain their postseason momentum.
The rapid release of Diontae Johnson, who was both traded twice and waived twice within a single season, reflects the challenging landscape many NFL players face, especially those who are constantly on the move. The demands of consistently proving one’s worth can be staggering, even for those as talented as Johnson, who once held a prestigious position in the Pro Bowl.
As playoff ambitions intensify for the Texans, the quick reshuffling of their roster illustrates the razor-thin margin for professional athletes in the NFL. For Johnson, the door is left open for yet another opportunity, perhaps with a team that can capitalize on his strengths and provide a stable role. Meanwhile, the Texans march forward, reshaping their lineup for success in pursuit of postseason accolades.