The Houston Texans have officially waived wide receiver Diontae Johnson, just days before facing the Kansas City Chiefs in a crucial playoff match. This decision comes after Johnson’s brief and frustrating tenure with the team, where he struggled to find his footing on the field and express his full potential.
Quick Facts About Diontae Johnson’s Departure
- The Texans waived Johnson on January 14, 2025, after he played only two games.
- In those two games, he made three receptions for a total of just 24 yards.
- Johnson was visibly upset following the Texans’ playoff victory over the Chargers, indicating his frustration with limited playtime.
- Prior to joining the Texans, Johnson had been released by the Baltimore Ravens due to off-field issues.
- His career began with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he had significant success, including a Pro Bowl selection in 2021.
Johnson’s Struggles in Houston
Johnson’s time with the Texans began with high hopes, especially after injuries sidelined key players like Tank Dell. However, despite being claimed off waivers from the Ravens at the end of December, Johnson’s impact on the field was minimal. His former team, the Ravens, had also seen a turbulent period with Johnson, leading to a controversial end to his time there.
In Houston, Johnson was expected to fill a significant role in the offense but ended up playing only 15 snaps during his last game—the playoff victory against the Chargers—where he was targeted only once. Coach DeMeco Ryans noted that the situation simply “didn’t work out.”
Johnson’s Football Journey
Before his time with the Texans, Diontae Johnson’s journey through the National Football League (NFL) had taken several twists and turns. He started his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers after being drafted in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. During his five years with the Steelers, he became a reliable weapon in their offense, amassing over 3,000 receiving yards and earning accolades along the way.
His run with the Steelers culminated in a Pro Bowl selection in 2021, where he registered a stellar season with 107 catches and 1,161 yards. This impressive performance, however, seemed to be a high point before a series of trades led him to the Carolina Panthers and subsequently the Ravens, where drama overshadowed his contributions.
A Look Back at Johnson’s Controversial Moments
Johnson’s career has not been without controversy. His refusal to enter a game while with the Ravens was a pivotal moment that led to his release from the team. This difficult history made his acquisition by the Texans a topic of interest, as they sought to bolster their roster in the wake of injuries. However, despite the fresh start, Johnson’s time in Houston quickly became clouded with disappointment.
With the Texans moving forward and Johnson now released, fans are left pondering what’s next for the talented yet tumultuous wide receiver. Will he find a new team willing to give him another chance, or has he hit a significant crossroads in his career?
What’s Next for the Texans?
As the Texans gear up for their pivotal playoff matchup against the Chiefs, they will need to regroup and adjust their game plan. With Johnson out of the picture, they’ll be relying heavily on their remaining skill players to step up in this critical moment.
This decision to part ways with Johnson signals a commitment by the Texans to field a focused and effective offense as they chase postseason glory. The road ahead may not be easy, but with the right mindset and adjustments, they’ll be ready to tackle the challenges of the playoffs.