Texans Release Diontae Johnson Ahead of Chiefs Showdown
In a surprising development just ahead of their critical divisional-round clash with the Kansas City Chiefs, the Houston Texans have announced the release of wide receiver Diontae Johnson. The decision comes amid swirling changes in the Texans' roster and provides an additional point of intrigue as they prepare to face one of the NFL's toughest opponents.
Johnson's release was a swift move, occurring shortly after he joined the Texans on December 23. His time on the Texas roster was brief but included participation in two key games. Despite modest performance, his involvement culminated in the regular-season finale against the Tennessee Titans, where he caught two passes for 12 yards. During the Wild Card round against the Los Angeles Chargers, Johnson managed to catch a single 12-yard pass, having been targeted once over 16 offensive snaps—accounting for 22 percent of the team's total offensive plays during that game.
Johnson's 2023 season has been one marked by transitions. The journey began with the Pittsburgh Steelers before he donned the jerseys of both the Carolina Panthers and the Baltimore Ravens. His stint with the Ravens ended after a trade sent him to the Carolina Panthers; Baltimore included a sixth-round pick in the deal, receiving a fifth-round pick in return. A predestined talent, Johnson's 2021 Pro Bowl selection remains a shining highlight in his career, a season where he logged 107 catches for 1,161 yards and scored eight touchdowns.
However, his potential was clouded by disciplinary issues when he faced suspension for conduct detrimental to the team, a hurdle that may have affected his trajectory this season. Following his turbulent experiences with prior franchises, the Texans provided Johnson with an opportunity to contribute to their playoff aspirations, yet that partnership has now ended.
As Texans fans digest this latest roster change, the team faces the immediate challenge of competing against the Chiefs without the services of other key wide receivers Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell, who are also out of the lineup. Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans offered a succinct comment on the situation: "With Diontae, unfortunately, it didn’t work out and we’re on to the Chiefs."
Looking ahead, the Texans will rely on a seasoned receiving corps, including John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson, to provide critical support to rising star Nico Collins. Their performance will be crucial as the Texans attempt to counter the formidable Chiefs defense and continue their quest for postseason success.
Every NFL season holds its share of surprises, with the movement of players like Johnson highlighting the dynamic nature of professional football. The Texans’ strategy may still evolve further as they continue to optimize their lineup. For Johnson, the immediate future remains uncertain, yet his undeniable skill and past successes suggest potential opportunities may lie ahead as teams across the league look to bolster their rosters.
As fans prepare for the high-stakes action this weekend, the focus now shifts from roster moves to on-field execution, where every play will count in the Texans' pursuit of victory against Kansas City.