Texans Waive Diontae Johnson as They Prepare for Chiefs Showdown
In a surprising move ahead of the Houston Texans’ crucial divisional-round game against the Kansas City Chiefs, the team has decided to waive wide receiver Diontae Johnson. The decision, announced just days before the high-stakes matchup, leaves the Texans shuffling their wide receiver lineup as they prepare to face one of the most formidable teams in the NFL.
Johnson's brief stint with the Texans comes to an end after joining the team on December 23, following his waiver by the Baltimore Ravens. Since his arrival in Houston, Johnson has participated in just two games. Despite limited opportunities, he managed to make an impression in the regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans, securing two receptions for a total of 12 yards.
During the Texans’ Wild Card victory against the Los Angeles Chargers, Johnson was afforded more playtime, featuring on the field for 16 offensive snaps, which accounted for 22 percent of the overall offensive plays. In this critical game, he was targeted once and successfully caught a pass, again notching 12 yards.
Johnson's journey this season has been turbulent, having worn the jerseys of four different teams: the Pittsburgh Steelers, Carolina Panthers, Baltimore Ravens, and Houston Texans. Originally starting the year with the Steelers, where he showcased his talents as a standout Pro Bowl receiver in 2021 with 107 catches for 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns, Johnson's tumultuous path saw him traded by the Ravens to the Panthers. The trade included a sixth-round pick in exchange for a fifth-round pick. His tenure with the Panthers was cut short following a suspension for conduct detrimental to the team, which eventually led to his acquisition by Houston.
As the Texans prepare to take on the Chiefs, they will have to manage without not only Johnson but also wide receivers Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell. To fortify their offensive options, the team will rely on a collective unit including John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson to support lead receiver Nico Collins. This adjustment highlights the necessity for the Texans to adapt quickly, ensuring their passing game remains competitive against a Chiefs defense noted for its resilience.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans succinctly addressed the roster change, stating, "With Diontae, unfortunately, it didn’t work out and we’re on to the Chiefs." Ryans’ comment underscores the team's need to focus on the task at hand, which is nothing short of monumental—a playoff battle that could define their season.
As the game against the Chiefs looms, the Texans must overcome the challenges of an evolving roster and the absence of key players. Yet, their recent performances suggest that they possess the resilience needed to rise to the occasion. With the versatility of their remaining receivers being put to the test and coaching strategies in full play, Houston will strive to overcome these hurdles and deliver a spirited contest in their bid for advancement in the playoffs.