In the final days leading up to the 2023 NFL Draft, the media can't get enough of the idea that Pittsburgh Steelers' receiver Diontae Johnson may have had his final days wearing a black and gold jersey. The receiver out of the University of Toledo has had a productive career in Pittsburgh, notably during his first three seasons playing with veteran quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. Coming off of a Pro Bowl season, Johnson was seen as the true WR1 for the Steel City. Despite Roethlisberger announcing his retirement, expectations remained high for Johnson leading into the 2022 season.
Sports Illustrated
This Isn't The First Offseason That Johnson's Future Has Been Up In The Air
Knowing his worth and taking insight from teammates like TJ Watt, Johnson opted to hold out of offseason workouts and training camp during his contract negotiations. While at the times fans had been concerned that the Steelers could let him walk, Johnson ultimately got his pay-day, agreeing to a two-year extension worth $36.71 million with $27 million guaranteed. With the last Pittsburgh receiver given a serious paycheck being Antonio Brown, Steeler Nation was confident that we had our long-term WR1. Unfortunately, things took a turn during the 2022 season.
Prior to the bye week, the Steelers went 2-6 and had already transitioned from Mitch Trubisky to Kenny Pickett as starting quarterback. The future looked dreary. Before the bye, Johnson's production was at an all-time low with 43 receptions for 372 yards and zero touchdowns. Although the team was able to reconvene and begin a remarkable run after the bye, Pickett and Johnson were still working on building their connection as they had limited reps previously.
On the other hand, rookie receiver George Pickens became a fan favorite with his ability to make incredible contested catches and chip-on-his-shoulder mentality. As the season came to a close, the fan base was torn. Could Pickens surpass Johnson as WR1?
Photo Credit: Jordan Schofield/Steeler Nation (Twitter: JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers wide receivers Diontae Johnson and George Pickens will be tasked to produce as the big dogs in the offense next year.
Khan Makes A Splash
Throughout the offseason, it's become clear that the new Steelers' General Manager, Omar Khan, isn't scared to take a risk. This is new for the franchise, as former GM Kevin Colbert took few risks throughout his well-respected tenure. Monday, ESPN's Todd McShay revealed that the Steelers are in talks with teams about a potential trade-up.
"I’ve heard Pittsburgh has contacted multiple teams, including the Bears (No. 9) and Titans (No. 11), about trading up for an offensive tackle. The Steelers need a long-term answer as protection for Kenny Pickett, and there are three potential cornerstone left tackles in this class who will be available in that range."
While the Pickett-to-Pickens connection is only getting stronger, teams have taken notice that Johnson may be up for grabs. What's interesting to note about this potential move is that both teams would be more than happy to bring Johnson onto the team. The Tennessee Titans in particular are in desperate need of a strong receiver to add to the roster.
Steelers.com
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens and quarterback Kenny Pickett with the Pickett to Pickens connection!
While this might not be a popular take, it's not totally out of the question. The Steelers aren't afraid to let go of a strong receiver and especially expensive ones. This has been shown time and time again with past departures like Emmanuel Sanders or more recently JuJu Smith-Schuster and Chase Claypool. With Johnson's contract negotiations once again coming soon, the Steelers may not be opposed to avoiding that conversation entirely and making a deal with one of the two teams.
Personally, I'm a fan of Johnson and not ready to rule him out after a disappointing season. I would like to see what Johnson and Pickett can do now that they've built a strong connection. What are your thoughts, Steeler Nation? Let us know in the comments.
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