Why Was Diontae Johnson Waived? Texans Locker Room Problems Explained

To everyone’s astonishment, wide receiver Diontae Johnson was let go by the Houston Texans over locker room conduct problems, just days before they face off against the Kansas City Chiefs in their divisional-round match on Saturday, January 18. Based on multiple reports, his dismissal from the Texans’ squad came after a series of incidents in the team’s locker room following their victory over the Los Angeles Chargers. Fans who have been keeping tabs on Johnson’s storyline during the 2025 NFL season might not be taken aback by this move, as he had previously been released by the Baltimore Ravens when he declined to play in early December.

What are Diontae Johnson’s locker room issues?

After their win against the Chargers, Diontae Johnson appeared disappointed in the locker room, expressing dissatisfaction about not receiving enough playing time and passes, as reported by ESPN.

In simpler terms, Landry Locker elaborated that Johnson acted unruly in the locker room when the team was connecting and rejoicing over their victory by lighting cigars. The two captains of the Texans, running back Joe Mixon and linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair, tried to pacify him during this incident.

During the playoff victory, Johnson managed to reel in just a single pass for twelve yards, taking part in sixteen offensive plays. This limited playing time left him feeling frustrated and downhearted, an emotional state that the wide receiver has struggled with previously.

According to reports from KPRC 2, it appears that the current player, Johnson, is set to be replaced by Jared Wayne, a wide receiver currently on the Texans’ practice squad, as per a league insider.

It’s plausible that Johnson was unable to perform in the context of this waiver due to lack of physical capability, but prior to the Chargers game, Texans coach DeMeco Ryans expressed admiration for his practice sessions and recognized Johnson’s potential. In fact, Ryans was pleased to collaborate with Johnson and noted that he had been a delight to work with.

At the end of the current season, Johnson’s contract will expire, making him an unencumbered free agent. However, the significant challenges he faced during this season could potentially prevent other teams from choosing to sign him.

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2025-01-15 01:40