Texans Waive Receiver Diontae Johnson Ahead of Crucial Matchup
In a surprising roster adjustment, the Houston Texans announced the release of wide receiver Diontae Johnson just days before their pivotal divisional-round game against the formidable Kansas City Chiefs. This sudden move comes as the Texans prepare to face a high-octane Chiefs offense without key receivers Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell.
Johnson's journey with the Texans was brief but eventful. Having joined the team on December 23 following his waiver from the Baltimore Ravens, Johnson managed to make a mark in the short time he donned the Texans' jersey. He participated in two games, contributing effectively when called upon. During the regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans, Johnson caught two passes, amassing a total of 12 yards. His involvement continued into the Wild Card round where, although targeted just once against the Los Angeles Chargers, he secured a 12-yard reception, playing a total of 16 snaps and representing 22 percent of the offensive plays.
This season reflects a whirlwind tour of NFL teams for Johnson, who found himself part of four different rosters: the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Carolina Panthers, the Ravens, and ultimately, the Texans. His journey from team to team included a trade from the Ravens to the Panthers, where he was exchanged alongside a sixth-round pick in return for a fifth-round selection.
Off-field issues shadowed Johnson's recent career. He faced a suspension for conduct detrimental to the team during his time with the Ravens, a factor that contributed to his perpetually transient status across various franchises. Despite these challenges, Johnson showcased his potential as a top-tier receiver in 2021 with the Steelers, earning a Pro Bowl selection thanks to his outstanding 107-catch, 1,161-yard season, which included eight touchdown receptions.
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans acknowledged Johnson's departure succinctly, stating, "With Diontae, unfortunately, it didn’t work out and we’re on to the Chiefs." This move necessitates that other players on the Texans’ roster step up, particularly as the team braces for a significant challenge in Kansas City. With major receivers Diggs and Dell sidelined, the responsibility now falls heavily on the shoulders of John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson, who will work alongside leading receiver Nico Collins in their quest to upset the Chiefs.
For the Texans, navigating a postseason without two core offensive weapons will test the team’s resilience and adaptability. While Johnson's release might raise eyebrows, Ryans and his coaching staff remain focused on refining strategies that maximize the strengths of available players. The match against the Chiefs, renowned for their explosive offensive capabilities, will demand precise execution and perhaps some unexpected heroics from the Texans’ remaining receiving corps.
The decision to cut ties with Johnson so close to such a critical contest underscores the Texans' need to cultivate a roster that aligns with their long-term competitive vision. While Johnson's stint in Houston was brief, it highlighted both the volatility and opportunity present in professional sports—where career highs can seamlessly follow career lows, all within the span of a single season.
As the Texans prepare for their showdown with the Chiefs, the outcome will likely determine the narrative of their 2023 postseason. With or without Diontae Johnson, their path forward is now in the hands of a new receiver lineup endeavoring to make their mark amidst the high-stakes atmosphere of the NFL playoffs.