In an NFL season that has produced its fair share of drama and heartbreak, Diontae Johnson’s tumultuous journey stands out. The once-promising wide receiver, who was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers, has seen his stock plummet as he ping-pong between four different teams in just one season. From controversies off the field to struggles on it, Johnson’s path in the 2024 season is a cautionary tale of what can happen when talent isn’t matched by discipline or reliability.
NFL – Diontae Johnson’s 2024 Rollercoaster Ride
It’s been nothing short of a chaotic year for wide receiver Diontae Johnson. With four different franchises on his resume this season and now a recent release from the Houston Texans, Johnson finds himself a player available on the waiver wire. The question looms: who will take a chance on a player whose past season has been marred by missteps and conflicts?
Diontae Johnson: The 2024 Flashpoint
Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2019, Johnson showcased flashes of brilliance on the field, but his off-field antics began to steal the limelight. From public disputes with fans to locker room clashes with teammates like Minkah Fitzpatrick, it became apparent that Johnson was becoming more of a liability than an asset. Following a series of incidents, the Steelers saw fit to trade Johnson to the Carolina Panthers, hoping he could refine his skills in a new environment while filling a vital role for rookie quarterback Bryce Young.
Johnson’s new chapter in Carolina started promisingly, but quickly descended into frustration as he battled with the team’s coaching decisions and their slow offensive output. After just seven games, the Panthers decided to send him packing once again, this time back to the AFC North with the Baltimore Ravens.
From Baltimore to Nowhere?
History repeated itself in Baltimore, where Johnson’s struggles continued to fester. Frustrated with limited playing time and targets, Johnson ultimately refused to enter the game when given the opportunity. Following a one-game suspension for his insubordination, the Ravens cut ties with him just two months into his stint.
The Houston Texans, eager to shore up their receiving corps due to an injury to Tank Dell, took a chance on Johnson. But just like before, his time with the Texans was marked by underwhelming performance—he played just 37% of the snaps in his final game, receiving only one target before being released ahead of the playoff matchup against the Chiefs.
What’s Next for Diontae Johnson?
As Johnson hits the waiver wire, two possible outcomes await him. One, he could potentially be picked up by a team willing to overlook his troubled past. However, considering the weight of his recent behavior issues this season, that prospect appears dim. More realistically, Johnson could finish the 2024 NFL season without a team, becoming a free agent in the offseason and hoping to land with a franchise looking for a number one receiver.
For Johnson, the 2024 season has been a harsh wake-up call. If he doesn’t find a team before the new season starts, this might just be the end of his NFL journey.
Photo credit: © Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
