Texans Waive Diontae Johnson After Brief Stint Following Ravens Release

HOUSTON (AP) — The Houston Texans waived wide receiver Diontae Johnson on Tuesday, ending his brief tenure with the team after just two games. Johnson, who was previously released by the Baltimore Ravens earlier this season following a refusal to enter a game, played sparingly in Houston’s wild-card playoff victory over the Los Angeles Chargers on Saturday.

Johnson, 28, recorded one reception for 12 yards in the playoff win. His time with the Texans followed a tumultuous stint with the Ravens, where he was suspended for one game after declining to play against the Philadelphia Eagles on Dec. 1. Baltimore had acquired Johnson in a trade with the Carolina Panthers on Oct. 29, but he played only 39 snaps for the team, catching one pass for 6 yards.

Houston coach DeMeco Ryans addressed the decision to waive Johnson but provided few details. “Unfortunately, it didn’t work out, and we’re on to the Chiefs,” Ryans said, referring to the team’s upcoming divisional-round playoff game against Kansas City. The Texans signed Johnson on Dec. 23 after losing wide receiver Tank Dell to a season-ending knee injury.

Johnson’s career has been marked by both success and controversy. Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, he amassed 391 catches for 4,363 yards and 25 touchdowns during his time in Pittsburgh. He earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2021 after posting a career-high 1,161 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. However, his recent struggles and attitude issues have overshadowed his on-field achievements.

The Ravens’ decision to claim Johnson off waivers on Wednesday could potentially benefit Baltimore in the 2026 NFL Draft. If Johnson signs a new contract as an unrestricted free agent, the Ravens could receive a compensatory draft pick. Baltimore has been the most successful team in the NFL in accumulating compensatory picks, earning 56 since the system began in 1994.

Johnson’s departure from Houston comes as the Texans prepare for their divisional-round matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs. The team also placed rookie tight end Cade Stover on injured reserve Tuesday due to a shoulder injury that will require surgery. Stover, a fourth-round pick from Ohio State, had four receptions for 28 yards in the playoff win over the Chargers.

Johnson’s future in the NFL remains uncertain as he enters free agency. His career totals stand at 4,726 receiving yards and 28 touchdowns over six seasons.