Texans Adjust Roster Ahead of Chiefs Clash
In a surprising twist ahead of their crucial divisional-round clash against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Houston Texans have waived wide receiver Diontae Johnson. This move adds another chapter to what has been a tumultuous season for Johnson, whose journey across multiple NFL teams this year finally sees him leaving Houston.
Johnson, once a celebrated Pro Bowl receiver with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2021, seemed to find stability elusive this season. His brief tenure with the Texans started on December 23 after being waived by the Baltimore Ravens. While with the Texans, Johnson participated in two games, making brief but notable contributions. His performance in the regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans saw him snagging two passes for 12 yards. Similarly, during the Wild Card showdown with the Los Angeles Chargers, Johnson was targeted once, logging a 12-yard catch while playing 16 snaps on offense—a participation marking 22 percent of the offensive plays.
The Texans' decision to release Johnson comes as they prepare to face the Chiefs, a game for which they will be missing wide receivers Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell. This leaves a spotlight on other receivers like John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson, who are set to support Nico Collins in Houston’s passing attack. Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans remarked on the situation succinctly, stating, "With Diontae, unfortunately, it didn’t work out and we’re on to the Chiefs."
Johnson's journey this season has been anything but steady. He initially played successfully for Pittsburgh before a series of transitions began. His time at Carolina was facilitated by a trade involving the Baltimore Ravens, which saw a sixth-round pick swapped for a fifth-round pick—indicating Johnson's perceived value. However, a suspension for conduct detrimental to the team cast a shadow over his record shortly before he was picked up by the Texans.
The Texans, therefore, move forward without Johnson, adjusting their squad dynamics in pursuit of victory against a formidable Kansas City team. For Johnson, the release is another turn in a winding professional road. The wide receiver's prowess was indisputably proven during his 2021 Pro Bowl season, where he caught 107 passes for 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns. Yet, the current NFL landscape, marked by strategic roster moves and constant performance assessments, leaves players like Johnson navigating a constantly shifting career trajectory.
As Houston braces to face a challenging competitor without full strength in their receiving unit, the focus intensifies on both established and less experienced receivers to step up and fill the void. This game presents an opportunity for the Texans to showcase resilience and strategic adaptability. For Johnson, the conclusion of his stint in Houston prompts reflection on past achievements and future potential in a competitive league.
While the Texan's waiver decision on Johnson may seem merely tactical, it is emblematic of the broader narrative of an NFL season where every player’s position is precarious, and opportunities are both fleeting and fiercely fought for. As fans and analysts turn their attention to the divisional-round battle, the ripple effects of Johnson's release will be felt both on the field and in discussions regarding team strategy.