Steelers' Diontae Johnson Blasts NFL Analyst On Social Media; Le'Veon Bell Offers Advice

The Pittsburgh Steelers found themselves in a bleak situation after a crushing 13-10 loss to the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. The game exposed significant issues in the Steelers' offense, particularly in their passing game, which only managed to accumulate a mere 106 yards through the air. The Steelers' first drive was abysmal, giving up a sack to Myles Garrett, struggling to get out of their own end zone, and experiencing a quick three-and-out.

The Browns came into this game bolstering arguably the league's best defense. However, the Steelers offense didn’t show up. It looked off all game, struggling to find its rhythm against the formidable Browns defense. The defensive pressure applied by the Browns disrupted the Steelers' passing lanes and created difficulties for Kenny Pickett in establishing a connection with his receivers. The offensive line faced challenges in containing the Browns' pass rush, leading to hurried throws and missed opportunities. 

The lackluster performance raised concerns about the Steelers' ability to navigate elite defensive units, emphasizing the need for adjustments and improvements moving forward. As the Steelers analyze the game tape, they must identify the specific breakdowns in communication and execution that contributed to this offensive struggle against the Browns' defense.

Star wide receiver Diontae Johnson, a key element in the Steelers' offensive machinery, struggled, securing only 2 catches for 16 yards. The aftermath on social media was unforgiving, with NFL Analyst Mike Frazer taking to X (formerly known as Twitter) to dissect Johnson's performance. In a bold move, Frazer accused Johnson of missing an elementary read, suggesting that the mistake was so basic that even someone in elementary school could have spotted it.

Johnson, not one to stay silent, fired back on social media, defending his actions.

"Ran the route I was supposed to sir. [Just] saying anything for likes smh."

While Johnson vehemently refuted Frazer's criticism, the broader issue of miscommunication within the Steelers' offense was evident throughout the game. The struggles between Pickett and the wide receivers were palpable, raising questions about the cohesion of the offensive unit.

Pickett, who has played in 23 games, faces challenges in connecting with Johnson and fellow wideout George Pickens. The quarterback has thrown only 13 touchdowns and has 13 interceptions to his name, indicating a broader issue in the passing game dynamics, whether or not Johnson ran the intended route.

Former Steelers Star Backs Johnson

Le’Veon Bell, a former Steelers star running back, jumped into the conversation, offering support and advice to Johnson.

"DJ forget dude, you the one in huddles, practice, meetings, walk through, etc. Don’t entertain these internet coaches... majority are completely ignorant to what's actually going on... so just keep killing big dawg, you already know once you win next week they right back."

Bell's words highlight the challenges that professional athletes face in the age of social media, where armchair analysts often scrutinize their every move. Encouragement from a former Steeler like Bell can provide a much-needed perspective for Johnson, urging him to focus on the game and not be swayed by external commentary.

Bell played five seasons with the Steelers and made his mark with the black and gold. In those five seasons, he accumulated 5,336 yards rushing, 2,660 yards receiving, and 42 touchdowns. After leaving the Steelers in 2018, Bell's career took a dive. He bounced around to the New York Jets, Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He last played in the NFL in 2021. Despite the challenges he faced after leaving Pittsburgh, his impact during his time with the Steelers is undeniable, and his advice to current players reflects the experience and knowledge he gained throughout his career.