Free Pro Bowl to Free Agent: Diontae Johnson NFL Career in Decline

Diontae Johnson was once known for his dazzling plays and a Pro Bowl appearance. Now, his career is at a crossroads. The 2024 season has been marked by trades and releases, leaving many fans and analysts confused by his sudden fall. After stints with the Carolina Panthers, Baltimore Ravens, and the Houston Texans, Johnson is now a free agent. He faces a tough road ahead to rebuild his NFL career.

Johnson started strong with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Drafted in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, he quickly became a reliable target. His breakout season came in 2021 when he surpassed 1,000 receiving yards, scored eight touchdowns, and earned a Pro Bowl selection. However, 2024 brought a sharp decline.

His troubles began with a trade to the Carolina Panthers, where he was the team’s top receiver in the first seven games. However, his performance dropped, and on October 29, 2024, he was traded again, this time to the Baltimore Ravens. Johnson’s time in Baltimore was brief and unsuccessful. He struggled to make an impact, managing just one catch for six yards in four games. Things took a turn for the worse on December 1, 2024, during a game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Despite an injury to fellow receiver Rashod Bateman, Johnson refused to play, leading to a suspension and his release on December 20, 2024.

In need of a wide receiver, the Houston Texans claimed Johnson off waivers on December 23, 2024. Fans hoped he might find a fresh start, but his time with Houston was also short-lived. Johnson played in only two games, catching just three passes for 24 yards. After the Texans’ Wild Card win over the Los Angeles Chargers, Johnson was visibly upset about his lack of playing time. He had only been on the field for 15 out of 70 offensive snaps, and his frustration was clear. His outburst in the locker room, witnessed by teammates Joe Mixon and Azeez Al-Shaair, led to his release on January 14, 2025, just days before the Texans' playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans addressed the situation simply: "Unfortunately, it didn’t work out. We’re on to the Chiefs." Ryans' comment gave no insight into the specifics of the decision, but it highlighted the team’s focus on the playoffs and the fact that Johnson had become a distraction.

Johnson has stayed quiet about his side of the story. Fans and analysts are left to guess his thoughts on being released and his time with Houston. His silence adds to the mystery of his situation. Efforts to reach him or his agent have not led to any public statements.

Many people are trying to figure out why Johnson’s career has taken such a sharp downturn. Some think he struggled to adjust to a lesser role in Houston after being the top receiver for most of his career. Others believe personality issues or coaching conflicts may be to blame. Johnson’s refusal to play in Baltimore and his outburst in Houston suggest he might have trouble fitting into a team environment. In the NFL, players need to adapt and work well with others if they want to succeed.

As Johnson heads into free agency again, his future in the NFL is uncertain. Teams will likely be cautious, examining his past behavior and his ability to contribute on the field. His recent struggles will raise concerns for any team thinking of signing him.

However, there is still hope. Johnson is only 26 years old, and his Pro Bowl season proves he has talent. To restart his career, he’ll need to address his issues head-on. He must show he’s willing to accept any role, put in the work to improve, and put the team first.

Diontae Johnson’s fall from grace is a reminder that talent alone isn’t enough to make it in the NFL. Success depends on a mix of skills, attitude, and professionalism. Whether Johnson can turn his career around remains to be seen. Fans will be watching closely to see if he can bounce back and reclaim his place in the league.