Texans Release Diontae Johnson Before Pivotal Divisional Clash
In a surprising move ahead of their crucial divisional matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Houston Texans have released wide receiver Diontae Johnson. Johnson, who joined the Texans after being claimed off waivers from the Baltimore Ravens late last year, finds himself once again without a team. This decision marks the end of a brief stint with the Texans during which Johnson participated in only two games.
Johnson's arrival in Houston came on December 23 as a waiver acquisition from Baltimore, where he had a turbulent tenure. During his short-lived time with the Texans, he managed to make a modest impact on the field. In the regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans, Johnson posted two receptions for a total of 12 yards. He also contributed during the Texans' wild-card round victory over the Los Angeles Chargers, recording one reception for another 12 yards. His participation in that game included 16 offensive snaps, accounting for around 22 percent of the team's plays—a clear indication that his role within the team was still evolving.
A Year of Unsettling Transitions
Johnson's NFL journey in the past year has been nothing short of a whirlwind. Initially part of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Johnson moved through a carousel of teams including the Carolina Panthers and the Baltimore Ravens before landing briefly in Houston. His tenure with the Ravens was notable not just for his on-field performances but also for off-field controversies. Baltimore traded for Johnson in October, sending a fifth-round draft pick to Carolina in exchange for Johnson and a sixth-round draft pick. Despite the investment, he faced a suspension in Week 15 for conduct deemed detrimental to the team, signaling a tumultuous relationship that would eventually see him released.
This latest cut is yet another chapter in a season filled with trades and waivers for Johnson, who has now been traded twice and waived twice within a single year. It's a stark contrast to Johnson's earlier successes in the league—perhaps most notably his standout 2021 season with the Steelers, where he earned a Pro Bowl selection after tallying 107 receptions, 1,161 yards, and eight touchdowns.
Texans' Receiver Corps Adjustments
As the Texans adjust their roster, they are banking on the talents of young and established players alike to fill the void left by Johnson. The team looks to promising players like John Metchie III, veteran Robert Woods, and newcomer Xavier Hutchinson. Meanwhile, Nico Collins remains a focal point of the Texans’ receiving lineup, its premier talent as they look to continue their postseason push without missing a beat.
The move to release Johnson signals the Texans' drive to refine their offensive options as they head into a critical phase of the playoffs. The team’s desire for a new dynamic in their receiving corps may aim to create a fresher, more reliable unit to challenge strong opponents as they advance further.
A Noteworthy Career
Diontae Johnson's career, encapsulating 391 receptions for over 4,363 yards and 25 touchdowns across 77 games, reflects both resilience and skill. His journey illustrates the volatility of professional sports, where a single season can see players making significant moves between franchises, experiencing highs such as Pro Bowl selections, and lows such as suspensions and releases.
As Johnson navigates free agency yet again, his future in the league remains uncertain. While his recent performances have been limited, the potential for redemption and success exists, should he find the right fit with another team.
For the Houston Texans, this move represents not only a tactical decision in their ongoing playoff efforts but also an opportunity to solidify and fortify their roster with players who can make substantial contributions. With Collins leading the pack, the Texans aim to ensure their receiving options fully support their quarterbacks and enhance their offensive strategies going forward.