During the 2019 NFL Draft, with their third-round selection and the 66th overall pick, the Pittsburgh Steelers chose wide receiver Diontae Johnson from the University of Toledo. However, in March of 2024, leading up to the 2024 NFL Draft, the Steelers engaged in a trade that sent Johnson to the Carolina Panthers. In return, the Steelers acquired cornerback Donte Jackson and a sixth-round pick in the 2024 draft, the 178th overall selection, which they then used to draft defensive end Logan Lee.
AP
Former Pittsburgh Steeler Diontae Johnson celebrates after scoring a touchdown in the Wild Card game against the Buffalo Bills.
Since his departure from the Steelers, Johnson has been moving around, remarkably playing for three different teams just in the 2024 season alone. However, in a surprising turn of events, NFL Insider Mike Garafolo broke the news via his X account that Johnson has signed with yet another team within the AFC North division, the Cleveland Browns.
The #Browns are signing veteran WR Diontae Johnson, sources say. Cleveland brought the former #Steelers and #Ravens pass catcher in for a visit today, and the sides then agreed to a deal. Back to the AFC North for Johnson. pic.twitter.com/NZIsQqUZiZ
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) April 28, 2025
As shown in the post, the Browns will mark Johnson's third team within the AFC North division, following his time with the Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens. During his time in Pittsburgh, Johnson had a productive stint, accumulating a significant 4,363 receiving yards out of his total career yardage of 4,738. Furthermore, he recorded 25 of his 28 career touchdowns while playing for the Steelers.
At the time the Steelers traded Johnson, he was still performing at a respectable level. The Panthers envisioned him as a key offensive weapon for their newly-acquired quarterback, Bryce Young. However, Johnson's tenure in Carolina was largely considered a bust. He recorded just 30 receptions for 357 yards before being handed off to the Ravens, a division rival of the Steelers.
NFL.com
Former Steelers' wide receiver Diontae Johnson during practice with the Carolina Panthers
Following a disappointing tenure with the Panthers, Johnson's time with other teams was quick. He played in just four games for the Ravens before being traded again, this time to the Houston Texans, where he appeared in a single game.
His brief period with the Ravens was highly discussed as he had significant off-field issues. Johnson reportedly refused to enter a game, which led to a team suspension and subsequent release by the Ravens. In a surprising turn of events, after being released by the Texans, the Ravens re-signed him, a move that left many observers puzzled.
Baltimore Beatdown Photos
Former Ravens WR Diontae Johnson smiles before a home game in Baltimore.
Former Steelers Wide Receiver May Have His Best Playing Days Behind Him
Ever since leaving the Steelers' organization, Johnson's career trajectory has taken a downward turn. However, at just 28 years old, this upcoming one-year deal with the Browns could potentially be what he needs to revitalize his career. As divisional adversaries, the Steelers and the Browns are scheduled to face each other twice during the season, ensuring a familiar face will be on the opposing sideline.
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