Texans Release Diontae Johnson Ahead of Crucial Matchup
In a surprising turn of events, the Houston Texans have parted ways with wide receiver Diontae Johnson just before their pivotal divisional-round game against the Kansas City Chiefs. This decision marks yet another twist in Johnson's tumultuous season, which has seen him don the jerseys of four different NFL teams.
Johnson's journey with the Texans began on December 23, shortly after the Baltimore Ravens released him. Rejoining the league with Houston, Johnson appeared in two games, making a modest impact in each. In the Texans' finale against the Tennessee Titans, he managed to haul in two passes totaling 12 yards. During the Wild Card clash with the Los Angeles Chargers, he was targeted once, catching a single 12-yard pass while playing 16 snaps, which accounted for 22 percent of the team’s offensive plays.
This year, Johnson, once a Pro Bowl receiver, has experienced a whirlwind of trades and releases. Earlier in the season, he moved from the Ravens to the Carolina Panthers in a deal that also involved a draft pick exchange. His stint with the Panthers was brief, ending in suspension for conduct deemed detrimental to the team before he found his way to Houston.
Reflecting on Johnson's release, Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans stated, "With Diontae, unfortunately, it didn’t work out and we’re on to the Chiefs." Ryans' comment succinctly captures the team's focus and hints at the challenges Johnson faced integrating into the Texans' roster.
The release of Johnson comes at a critical time for the Texans, as they face the challenge of entering a high-stakes game without key receivers Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell. This pressing situation places heavier expectations on the remaining wide receiver corps. John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson are expected to step up and provide vital support to Nico Collins in their quest to advance past the Chiefs.
Despite the instability this season, Diontae Johnson is not far removed from elite performance levels. His 2021 campaign with the Pittsburgh Steelers stood out, as he delivered 107 receptions, amassing 1,161 yards, and scoring eight touchdowns. Such achievements highlight the potential that teams see in him, even if his recent journey suggests otherwise.
As the Texans prepare for their clash with the Chiefs, the front office must consider how best to utilize the available offensive pieces in light of Johnson's departure. The team will need to galvanize their efforts and find innovative ways to unlock their wide receivers' potential against a formidable Kansas City defense.
For now, Johnson's sights will turn to the future, as he navigates the complexities of free agency once more. His track record assures that there will be interest, but what remains to be seen is which organization will decide to harness his undeniable talent and offer him the stability he needs to rekindle the form that made him a star just two seasons ago.