NFL star wideout Diontae Johnson has been released for the fourth time this season, marking a tumultuous period for the former Pro Bowler. The Houston Texans announced the decision on Tuesday, just as the team gears up for a crucial Divisional Round playoff matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Johnson, who was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft, has had a rollercoaster of a year. After being traded from the Steelers to the Carolina Panthers before the season, he had a decent start, recording 30 catches for 257 yards and three touchdowns. However, his journey took a downward turn when he was sent to the Baltimore Ravens, where he struggled to make an impact.
After joining the Ravens, Johnson played in 39 snaps but managed to catch only one pass for six yards. His time in Baltimore ended with a suspension for refusing to enter a game against the Philadelphia Eagles on December 1. Following his release from the Ravens on December 20, the Texans picked him up just three days later.
In his brief stint with the Texans, Johnson played only 15 offensive snaps and recorded just one catch for 12 yards. After the Texans’ Wild Card victory over the Los Angeles Chargers, he was visibly upset in the locker room, a clear sign of his frustration with the season’s events.
So, what does the future hold for Johnson? The 28-year-old has had a challenging year, but he still has potential. He was a standout in the 2021 season, earning a Pro Bowl selection and recording his only 1,000-yard season with 107 catches and a career-high eight touchdowns. After that impressive campaign, he signed a two-year, $36.7 million contract extension with the Steelers.
However, the following year saw him lead the team with 86 receptions for 882 yards, but he failed to find the end zone. This inconsistency has raised questions about his future in the league.
Johnson’s Journey Through the NFL
Johnson’s journey has been anything but straightforward. After being traded from the Steelers to the Panthers, and then to the Ravens, he now finds himself looking for yet another opportunity. The Steelers traded him for cornerback Donte Jackson and a 2024 NFL Draft pick, which they used to select defensive tackle Logan Lee from Iowa.
With the Texans now parting ways with him, Johnson has been released by four NFL teams this season alone. Will he find a new home in 2025? It’s a question that many are asking as the NFL landscape continues to shift.
As Johnson navigates this challenging chapter, one thing is clear: he has earned $36 million in his career, showcasing his talent and potential. The NFL is full of surprises, and while Johnson’s journey has been rocky, the next chapter is yet to be written.
NFL Division Round Schedule
Sat 18 Jan, 4.30 pm ET (ESPN/ABC) – Houston Texans at Kansas City Chiefs
Sat 18 Jan, 8 pm ET (Fox) – Washington Commanders at Detroit Lions
Sun 19 Jan, 3 pm ET (NBC) – Los Angeles Rams at Philadelphia Eagles
Sun 19 Jan, 6.30 pm ET (CBS) – Baltimore Ravens at Buffalo Bills
As fans, we can only hope to see Johnson bounce back and find success again in the league. His talent is undeniable, and the NFL always has room for players who can make an impact. Will Johnson rise from the ashes of this challenging season? Only time will tell.
