As the Pittsburgh Steelers approach the 2023 regular season, the excitement and anticipation couldn't be higher for Steeler Nation. Following a turbulent 2022 season, 2023 looks to be a great bounce back year for not only the Steelers, but also for star wide receiver, Diontae Johnson.
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Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (#18) stands on the field at Acrisure Stadium before the start of a 2022 preseason game.
Recently, Johnson spoke to Kevin Adams and Jersey Jerry on their podcast Steel Here. During Johnson's time on the podcast, Adams asked Johnson if the 2023 Steelers team could be able to compete this year in the NFL. First, Adams simply asked Johnson if he believes the Steelers could make the playoffs in 2023. Johnson responded quick and sounded like he had no second doubt.
"This is a playoff team; the Pittsburgh Steelers are a playoff team for sure."
But Johnson didn't stop there. He was then asked by Adams if the 2023 Steelers are capable of winning the Super Bowl. Once again, Johnson sounded to have no doubt in his response.
"Of course, no doubt I feel like this the year, when you're out here playing along these guys, you can feel it."
With buzz continuing to follow the Steelers after their undefeated 2023 preseason, many believe the Steelers' ceiling could be endless. With Johnson now entering his fifth season in the NFL (all with Pittsburgh), he believes this could be the best year to make a push for a Super Bowl since he's been in the league. With new and returning talent on both sides of the ball, this 2023 Steelers team could be an exciting one to watch.
Douglas DeFelice / Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers offense takes the field against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Tampa, FL during a 2023 preseason game.
Steelers Receiver Johnson Looks To Have Big 2023 Season
Following a 2022 campaign where Johnson was held to zero touchdown receptions, the receiver looks to have a huge 2023 campaign. This year looks to be the perfect season for Johnson to have a huge year as well. With quarterback Kenny Pickett looking to further his chemistry with Johnson in his second year, the former Toledo standout is poised for a tremendous bounce back season. Not only will Pickett and Johnson's relationship be much stronger than it was in 2022, but the Steelers offense is returning multiple big-time playmakers. That includes stars such as: George Pickens, Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren, and Pat Freiermuth.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers offense celebrates a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills in Pittsburgh, PA.
Along with having so many returning playmakers on offense, the Steelers also will be adding in speedy receiver Calvin Austin III, and rookie tight end Darnell Washington. The Steelers will be very glad to have Austin finally in the lineup in 2023 after the speedy receiver missed all of his rookie season with an injury in 2022. Now, entering the 2023 regular season, the Steelers will have to figure out a way to be able to share the ball between every single one of these playmakers. Make no mistake though, Johnson will most likely be Pickett's top receiver this season. His speed cuts, as well as his great agility when it comes to route running sets him apart from the rest of the Steelers receiving room.
Regarding touchdown receptions for Johnson this season, that shouldn't be a problem. Despite being held to zero in 2022, Johnson still had 147 targets and should be around that same number this season. That was good for 7th (tied) in the entire league. With all of the pieces falling into place for the Steelers in 2023, it will be exciting to see how well they are able to put it all together.
What does Steeler Nation believe? Will the 2023 Steelers make it to the NFL playoffs this year? Or better yet, the Super Bowl, beating out current AFC juggernauts like the Kansas City Chiefs, Cincinnati Bengals, or Buffalo Bills? Leave your thoughts down below in the comment section, or on our social media pages!
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