The Houston Texans have bolstered their receiving corps with the addition of wide receiver Diontae Johnson, claiming him off waivers from the Baltimore Ravens. This move comes as a direct response to the devastating knee injury suffered by rookie receiver Tank Dell during the Texans’ Week 17 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. Dell’s injury, diagnosed as a dislocated kneecap and a torn ACL, will require season-ending surgery, marking the second consecutive year the promising young receiver’s season has been prematurely cut short. Johnson’s arrival provides a much-needed veteran presence to a Texans team gearing up for a playoff run, having already secured the AFC South title. He is expected to step into a significant role within the offense, becoming a key target for rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud.
Johnson’s acquisition comes amidst a backdrop of controversy surrounding his recent departure from the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens had traded for Johnson mid-season, acquiring him from the Carolina Panthers on October 29th. However, his tenure in Baltimore was short-lived and tumultuous. Following a refusal to enter a December 1st game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Johnson was suspended for one game by the Ravens and subsequently excused from all team activities. His on-field contributions for Baltimore were minimal, totaling just one catch for six yards in four games played, with his last appearance dating back to November 25th against the Los Angeles Chargers.
The irony of this situation is not lost on observers, as the Texans are scheduled to face the Ravens on Christmas Day, a matchup that will now feature Johnson lining up against his former team. This adds another layer of intrigue to a game already significant for both teams’ playoff positioning. For Johnson, it presents an opportunity to showcase his abilities against the team that recently parted ways with him, while for the Ravens, it will be a chance to assess the potential impact of his absence.
Johnson’s NFL journey began with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he spent five seasons prior to his brief stint in Carolina and Baltimore. He experienced a breakout year in 2021, earning Pro Bowl honors with career-high numbers of 107 receptions, 1,161 receiving yards, and eight touchdowns. This past performance provides a glimpse of the potential Johnson brings to the Texans’ offense. His experience and proven ability to produce at a high level could prove invaluable as Houston navigates the challenges of the postseason.
The Texans are hoping that Johnson can recapture some of that Pro Bowl form and provide a spark to their passing game. With Dell’s season-ending injury, the Texans were left with a void in their receiving corps. Johnson’s arrival addresses this need, offering a veteran option alongside the existing group of receivers. His ability to create separation and make contested catches could be a crucial asset for Stroud, who will be looking to establish a rapport with his new target quickly.
This waiver claim represents a calculated risk for the Texans. While Johnson’s recent off-field issues raise concerns, his talent and potential upside are undeniable. The Texans are betting that a change of scenery and a fresh start in Houston will allow Johnson to refocus and contribute meaningfully to their playoff aspirations. The upcoming Christmas Day clash against the Ravens will provide an early indication of whether this gamble will pay off. For Johnson, it’s an opportunity to prove his worth and re-establish himself as a valuable asset in the NFL. For the Texans, it’s a move aimed at solidifying their receiving corps and strengthening their chances of making a deep playoff run.
