Diontae Johnson's Short Stint with Houston Texans Comes to an Unexpected End
A Shifting Landscape
The Houston Texans made headlines this week as they decided to part ways with Diontae Johnson. This move came just before their crucial divisional encounter with the Kansas City Chiefs. Johnson, a player who found himself moving frequently this season, was claimed off waivers from the Baltimore Ravens on December 23. However, his time with the Texans was short-lived, encompassing just two appearances on the field.
Performance on the Field
During his brief tenure with the Texans, Johnson made an impression, albeit a limited one. In the regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans, he managed to catch two passes totaling 12 yards. When the Texans faced the Los Angeles Chargers in a wild-card victory, Johnson was on the field for 16 offensive snaps, approximately 22% of the team's plays. He caught a single pass, again adding another 12 yards to his tally.
Trading and Waiving – A Familiar Pattern
This season, Johnson has been a player in constant motion. His journey began with the Pittsburgh Steelers, followed by stints with the Carolina Panthers, and later the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens acquired him from the Panthers in October by trading away a fifth-round draft pick while receiving a sixth-round pick in return. Unfortunately, his relationship with the Ravens came under strain as he faced suspension in Week 15, cited for conduct detrimental to the team. Add to that being traded twice and waived twice, it’s been a tumultuous year for Johnson.
A Proven Talent
Despite a season marked by uncertainty, Johnson's career numbers speak volumes. Over 77 games, he's amassed 391 receptions, accumulating over 4,363 yards, and 25 touchdowns. His most notable year came in 2021 with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he earned a Pro Bowl selection, recording 107 receptions for 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns. It’s a testament to his abilities and dedication on the gridiron.
Future Prospects for the Texans
For the Texans, the focus now shifts to other talents as they navigate through the playoffs. John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson are expected to step up and fill the void left by Johnson's departure. With Nico Collins leading as their top receiver, the Texans hope to maintain their competitive edge. As the postseason unfolds, they’ll look to reconfigure and optimize their lineup to challenge formidable opponents like the Chiefs.