The Houston Texans made a significant roster change on Tuesday by waiving wide receiver Diontae Johnson. This surprising move comes just before the Texans gear up for their AFC Divisional Round playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs. Johnson had only been with the team for a short time, joining them after they claimed him off waivers from the Baltimore Ravens in late December 2024, following a season filled with ups and downs.
Limited Impact on the Field
During his brief stint with the Texans, Johnson struggled to leave his mark. In just two games, he caught only one pass for a mere 12 yards in their playoff victory against the Los Angeles Chargers. Despite hopes that he would become a key player for quarterback C.J. Stroud, his playing time was severely limited, with the receiver only taking part in 15 out of the 70 offensive snaps during that game. This lack of involvement seemed to frustrate Johnson, who expressed disappointment in the locker room afterward, indicating that he felt underutilized.
A Background of Controversy
Johnson’s NFL journey has been anything but straightforward. He started his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he shone brightly, especially during a Pro Bowl season in 2021, when he posted 107 catches for 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns. However, after being traded to the Carolina Panthers, his time there also came with challenges. His latest departure from the Ravens stemmed from his refusal to enter a game against the Philadelphia Eagles, leading them to waive him after suspending him for that decision.
Why the Texans Made This Decision
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans commented on the situation, stating that Johnson’s time with the team did not work out as expected. The decision to release Johnson reflects a broader strategy by the Texans to optimize their roster as they enter a critical playoff phase. The Texans are looking to rely on players who can contribute more consistently on the field, especially given their aspirations of advancing deep into the postseason.
The Road Ahead for Johnson
For Diontae Johnson, this latest wave leaves many questions about his future in the NFL. His previous successes at Pittsburgh offer a glimpse of potential, but this tumultuous season leaves scouts and fans wondering where he will end up next. As the playoffs continue without him, both the Texans and Johnson will have to navigate their respective paths going forward with a focus on what lies ahead.
A Snapshot of Johnson’s Career
| Team | Year | Games Played | Catches | Yards | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pittsburgh Steelers | 2019-2021 | 48 | 163 | 1,871 | 9 |
| Carolina Panthers | 2022 | 16 | 30 | 257 | 3 |
| Baltimore Ravens | 2024 | 4 | 1 | 6 | 0 |
| Houston Texans | 2025 | 2 | 1 | 12 | 0 |
As Diontae Johnson reflects on his NFL journey, one can only hope he finds a team where he can showcase his skills once again. For the Texans, they turn their focus to the playoffs, hoping to claim a victory against the Chiefs without the added drama that has surrounded Johnson’s time in Houston.