The Houston Texans made a surprising move this week by waiving wide receiver Diontae Johnson just ahead of their important playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs. This decision follows a brief and challenging tenure for Johnson with the team, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering what went wrong.
Quick Look at Diontae Johnson’s Short Time with the Texans
Diontae Johnson’s time with the Texans was marked by limited opportunities. After being picked up off waivers from the Baltimore Ravens just in time for the holiday season, he played in only two games for Houston. In those two encounters, Johnson had a total of three catches for 24 yards. His lack of involvement in the offense followed Johnson’s visible frustration, particularly after receiving only one target during the Texans’ recent playoff victory over the Los Angeles Chargers.
Reasons Behind Johnson’s Waiving
The decision to let Johnson go was not entirely unexpected. His previous team, the Baltimore Ravens, had released him just a few weeks earlier due to a controversial incident where he refused to enter a game against the Philadelphia Eagles. This led to a one-game suspension and a rather tumultuous few months. Coach DeMeco Ryans indicated that Johnson’s time with the Texans simply didn’t meet expectations, and with the playoffs fast approaching, the team needed to make that tough call.
A Look Back at Johnson’s Career
Diontae Johnson isn’t a stranger to the NFL spotlight. He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2019 and quickly made a name for himself. His best season came in 2021 when he was selected for the Pro Bowl after racking up 107 catches for 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns. However, his journey has been rocky lately, playing for multiple teams, including the Carolina Panthers and the Ravens, before making his way to Houston.
What’s Next for the Texans?
With Diontae Johnson now off the roster, the Texans are focusing on their playoff strategy. As they prepare for the pivotal matchup against the Chiefs, they’ll be counting on other talented players to step up. The Texans fought hard to secure their AFC South title, and now they aim to make a strong playoff run without Johnson on the field.
Fans React to the News
The announcement of Johnson’s waiving has sparked a mix of reactions among fans. While some supporters expressed disappointment over his brief stint and the potential he could have brought, others understood that the team had to make difficult decisions to ensure their playoff aspirations. This rollercoaster experience highlights the unpredictable nature of the NFL and the challenges players face.
Future Prospects for Johnson
As for Diontae Johnson, the future remains uncertain. He now finds himself in search of a new team and possibly another chance to showcase his skills. Without a doubt, his previous performance with the Steelers and his time in college indicates that he has the talent, but recent challenges may raise questions for potential suitors. Johnson’s journey in the NFL has been a winding road, and it will be interesting to see where his next chapter leads him.
