Houston Texans Part Ways with Diontae Johnson Ahead of Pivotal Playoff Clash
In a surprising roster move ahead of their divisional playoff matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Houston Texans announced they have waived wide receiver Diontae Johnson. This decision comes shortly after Johnson's brief tenure with the team, which included appearances in two critical games.
Johnson's time in Houston was as brief as it was eventful. He joined the Texans on December 23, after being waived by the Baltimore Ravens earlier in the month. Despite the quick transition, Johnson managed to contribute on the field, participating in both the regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans and the Wild Card clash against the Los Angeles Chargers.
During the matchup against the Titans, Johnson caught two passes for a modest total of 12 yards. In the high-stakes Wild Card game, he added another 12-yard reception, having been targeted once. Despite playing only 16 offensive snaps and accounting for 22 percent of the offensive playtime, his presence was notable given his career achievements.
Prior to joining the Texans, Johnson's season was marked by a journey through several franchises. This year alone, he suited up for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Carolina Panthers, Baltimore Ravens, and finally, the Texans. His stint with the Panthers saw him being traded from the Ravens, along with a sixth-round pick, in exchange for a fifth-round pick. An incident involving a suspension for conduct detrimental to the team while with the Ravens loomed over his career, even as he transitioned to different organizations.
Johnson's fall from a Pro Bowl-caliber player with the Steelers in 2021, where he impressively caught 107 passes for 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns, to his current status of uncertainty reflects the volatility of professional football careers. However, his natural talent remains undisputed, leaving many to wonder where his capabilities might next find a home.
The Texans' head coach DeMeco Ryans succinctly encapsulated the situation, stating, "With Diontae, unfortunately, it didn’t work out and we’re on to the Chiefs." This comment underscores the team's forward-looking approach as they prepare to take on the Chiefs without key wide receivers Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell. The absence of these playmakers puts additional pressure on the remaining receiving corps, including John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson, who will support Nico Collins in the passing game.
As the Texans grapple with their current roster constraints, the decision to release Johnson reflects a calculated move to stabilize their offensive strategy ahead of a critical match. The impact of this decision will unfold in their forthcoming battle against the Chiefs, a team known for their explosive offense and tight defense. For Johnson, the waiver marks another chapter in his tumultuous career, leaving fans and analysts alike to speculate on his next move in the NFL landscape.