Diontae Johnson's tumultuous NFL season has taken yet another turn as the talented wide receiver has been claimed off waivers by the Houston Texans. The Texans made this strategic move following significant injuries to their receiving corps, particularly to Tank Dell, who suffered a season-ending knee injury during the team's recent game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Texans were awarded Johnson on Monday, just days before their face-off against the Ravens on Christmas Day. Dell’s unfortunate injury—a torn ACL and dislocated kneecap—left the Texans needing to bolster their wide receiver lineup, which already included notable players John Metchie III, Nico Collins, and Robert Woods.
Johnson's path to Houston has been anything but smooth. He began the 2024 NFL season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he played a pivotal role for five years before being traded to the Carolina Panthers. His time with the Panthers was marked by mixed performances, with Johnson tallying 31 receptions for 363 yards and three touchdowns over seven games.
Things took another sharp turn when pressure mounted following Johnson's trade to the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens, seeking to strengthen their own receiving options, acquired Johnson along with future draft picks. Unfortunately, his stay in Baltimore lasted only four games, where he managed to catch just one pass for six yards. His refusal to enter the Ravens’ Week 12 game against the Philadelphia Eagles led to his suspension for conduct detrimental to the team, as stated by Ravens' general manager Eric DeCosta. Johnson was waived shortly after, highlighting the friction between him and the Ravens.
The Texans now hope to leverage Johnson's skills as they gear up for their playoff run. Despite his rocky season, Johnson has historically been one of the league’s premier performers when healthy. He ranked among the top wide receivers for creating separation from defenders, showcasing his potential as a valuable pass catcher. Observers are curious about how effective he will be for Houston, especially with both Dell and Stefon Diggs out for the rest of the season.
With the Texans clinching the AFC South title, Johnson could find himself playing the role of contributing player for their postseason push. Head coach DeMeco Ryans will have to balance getting Johnson integrated quickly with the team dynamics already established by players like Collins and Woods.
Although it remains uncertain if Johnson will step onto the field against the Ravens just one day after joining the team, the Texans understand the risk they are taking. Johnson has the chance to rehabilitate his image and performance after multiple transitions this year. His ability to capitalize on this opportunity may have far-reaching effects on his future contracts as he approaches free agency this offseason.
While talent is undeniable, Johnson's history of off-field issues could weigh heavily on his chances of remaining with the Texans beyond this season. Houston's front office will closely monitor his performance during their playoff campaign, especially with regard to potential negotiations.
Johnson's arrival stands at the intersection of immediate team needs and looming future uncertainties. The matchup against the Ravens—who he had his last stint with—will definitely add drama to the season's ending for both the team and player alike.
