The Houston Texans have made a roster adjustment just ahead of their crucial divisional-round matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs. Wide receiver Diontae Johnson has been waived by the team, marking another chapter in what has been a turbulent season for the Pro Bowl receiver.
The Journey of Diontae Johnson
Diontae Johnson's 2023 season has seen him wearing several different jerseys. Starting with the Pittsburgh Steelers, his year included stints with the Carolina Panthers and Baltimore Ravens before joining the Houston Texans. A potentially promising addition to the Texans' roster on December 23, after being waived by the Ravens, Johnson's tenure in Houston was short-lived.
Despite being a late addition, Johnson saw action in two games with the Texans. In the regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans, he recorded two receptions for 12 yards, showcasing glimpses of his reliable short-yardage skills. His performance in the Wild Card game against the Los Angeles Chargers was modest, with a single catch for 12 yards, despite being a target once and playing 16 offensive snaps. This accounted for 22 percent of the offensive plays in that game.
Johnson's journey this season has been tumultuous. Before arriving at the Texans, he was traded by Baltimore to Carolina. The trade included Johnson and a sixth-round pick in exchange for a fifth-round pick, reflecting his value amidst a fluctuating market for wide receivers. However, disciplinary issues marred his time in Baltimore, resulting in a suspension for conduct deemed detrimental to the team, casting a shadow over his trade value.
Looking to the Future Without Johnson
Now, the Texans prepare to face the formidable Kansas City Chiefs without the services of Johnson, as well as key receivers Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell. Head coach DeMeco Ryans expressed a no-nonsense outlook, stating, "With Diontae, unfortunately, it didn’t work out and we’re on to the Chiefs." This signals a shift in focus towards the upcoming challenge, with the existing roster poised to step up in the absence of Johnson and others.
The Texans will rely on a receiving corps led by Nico Collins, supported by John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson. This group is tasked with maintaining offensive output and providing quarterback support in light of the reduced roster depth at the receiver position. Collins, in particular, has emerged as a pivotal target and will be essential in spreading the field against a tricky Chiefs defense.
A Glimmer of Johnson's Former Glory
Despite his struggles this season, Johnson's previous achievements are hard to overlook. During the 2021 campaign with Pittsburgh, he showcased his potential by catching 107 passes for 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns, earning a Pro Bowl selection. These numbers reveal a player capable of high impact, although challenges off the field have hindered his consistency in recent times.
The Texans have had to make tough personnel decisions, and releasing Johnson reflects the dynamic nature of professional sports, where team fit and discipline play crucial roles. His departure leaves questions unanswered about his future in the NFL, and whether he can recapture the form that once made him a coveted receiver across the league.
As the Texans move forward, they do so with the determination to rise above roster challenges and focus on their upcoming clash against the Chiefs. With a blend of emerging talent and veteran presence in their ranks, the team aims to advance further in the playoffs, even as adjustments continue to shape their path.