Diontae Johnson’s short time with the Ravens was nothing short of disappointing. After being traded to Baltimore mid-season, the wide receiver only appeared in four games, managing a single catch for just six yards. Things went downhill both on and off the field, as his lackluster performance combined with reported issues within the team led the Ravens to waive him last week.
But as the saying goes, one team’s loss is another’s opportunity. On Monday, the Houston Texans picked Johnson up off waivers, hoping he could help fill the void left by Tank Dell’s season-ending injury. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Dell suffered a dislocated kneecap and a torn ACL during the weekend’s game against the Chiefs, abruptly ending his breakout rookie season.
Dell’s injury is a major blow for the Texans, who already lost another top receiver, Stefon Diggs, to a torn ACL earlier this year. Despite these setbacks, Houston has secured the AFC South title and is gearing up for the playoffs. To make a deep run, they’ll need reinforcements in the passing game, and Johnson might just be part of the solution.
Unfortunately, Johnson’s debut with the Texans will have to wait. The team faces his former squad, the Ravens, on Christmas Wednesday afternoon, but there isn’t enough time for Johnson to be activated. Instead, he’s expected to make his debut in Week 18 against the Titans.
The Texans’ Current Wide Receiver Situation
With Johnson joining the roster, here’s a look at Houston’s wide receiver depth chart:
- Nico Collins – The clear No. 1 option, Collins has been on fire since returning from injury in November, racking up 28 catches for 342 yards and three touchdowns over the past five games.
- John Metchie – Now stepping into a bigger role, Metchie has 17 catches for 182 yards and one touchdown this season.
- Diontae Johnson – Based on talent, Johnson could slot in as the second option once he’s up to speed.
- Robert Woods – A seasoned veteran with 16 catches for 143 yards this year, Woods adds experience to the lineup.
- Xavier Hutchinson – A backup option with only nine catches for 91 yards in 2024.
- Jared Wayne – Primarily a special teams player, unlikely to see significant time in the passing game.
- Stefon Diggs (IR) – Out for the season with a torn ACL.
- Tank Dell (IR) – Also sidelined for the season with a knee injury.
With their top two receivers out, the Texans will lean heavily on Collins to carry the passing attack, while players like Metchie, Woods, and eventually Johnson will need to step up.
Diontae Johnson’s 2024 Journey So Far
It’s been a rocky year for Johnson. Across 11 games split between the Panthers and Ravens, he’s recorded 31 catches for 363 yards and three touchdowns, most of which came during his time in Carolina.
While he hasn’t had a standout season, the Texans are counting on his talent to bolster their receiver corps as they chase playoff success. Whether he can rise to the occasion remains to be seen, but for now, Houston is banking on Johnson to help fill the gaps left by their injured stars.