Steelers' Diontae Johnson Completely Confident That Kenny Pickett Needed Him To Win

The Pittsburgh Steelers were excited to get Diontae Johnson back, who they consider to be their true starting receiver in 2023. Few players in the NFL can run routes like Johnson can, and he showcased that during Pittsburgh's Week 7 victory over the Los Angeles Rams. After the win, Johnson wasn't shy about the reason for his quarterback's performance. According to Johnson, it was his return from injury that ended up making all the difference.

Steelers Johnson Sure Of Himself And His Impact

Nothing was given to the Steelers when they took on the Rams in Week 7. All game, the defenses made their respective presence known, but this week was different for Pittsburgh because this was the game in which they got Johnson back. A hamstring injury had kept Johnson out of the lineup since Week 1 against the San Francisco 49ers. After being patient, rehabbing, and painfully watching the Steelers offense consistently struggle, Johnson let loose and reminded everyone why he is the most complete receiver on Pittsburgh's roster.

Speaking to the media following Pittsburgh's Week 7 victory, Johnson made it quite clear that his return was the true catalyst for the rise in offensive productivity. Also, the dynamic receiver told reporters that his being on the field was huge for Kenny Pickett's return to the form that got him drafted in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Johnson was asked how much his presence impacted the Steelers offense and the rise in energy, something he was fully prepared to answer.

"It's big like you said, it gives us, Kenny, another weapon out there. I get to show that I can get open on any or almost any play. That's my special ability: getting open, route running. And that's what Kenny needs out there."

Confidence is only legitimate when it is backed up, and Johnson certainly did that, making several vital catches and reminding everyone why the Steelers gave him an extension prior to the 2022 season. It isn't a secret that Pickett has struggled throughout 2023, but with Johnson back in the lineup, there was a spark that had certainly been missing. Every quarterback has that target who they are just comfortable with, and while that bond may form between him and George Pickens down the line, right now, there is just something different with Johnson.

Steelers Are Better Thanks To Johnson's Precise Abilities

When the passing game is functioning, the running game will be better. On the other side of that coin is another truth because when the running game needs to be respected, it opens up the passing game. For Pittsburgh, neither has been flourishing as of late, but the need to focus on Johnson rather than eliminate Pickens meant that the offense was able to stretch its legs a bit.

Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren, and Pickett combined for three rushing touchdowns on Sunday, and in return, the receivers enjoyed a bit more space than fans have gotten used to seeing from Pittsburgh's offense. Pickens had 107 yards, and Johnson tallied 79 yards, each with five catches, and both made a significant impact on the game. Johnson, as much as he was aware of what his presence brought to the offense, gave credit to the entire receivers room during his locker room interview after the game.

His young quarterback may have relied on Johnson's talents to excel on Sunday, but Johnson knew the other receivers on the team would be able to play their roles and make a difference.

"Everybody did their job today. Me, George, A.R, everybody. So, you gotta give props to the whole offense, not just me, but me being able to run routes, stuff like that, brings a lot of upside to our offense."

Johnson manages to toe a fine line there because, on one hand, it's important for a leader to give credit all around when the team gets an important and much-needed victory. On the other hand, though, there is the reality that Johnson allowed every part of the offense to expand and grow more than it has since he left in Week 1 of 2023. It's all positive that Johnson recognizes what he brings to the table because the Steelers will need much more of the same from him as 2023 progresses.

When it comes to route-running, Johnson is truly on another level, and that was on display today from start to finish. The confidence that Johnson let show in his comments should spread through the offense and become the bar that everyone holds themselves to. The Steelers proved that they have the ability to be better; however, at this point, it's clear that they need Johnson on the field to do so.

How many touchdowns will Diontae Johnson have when the 2023 season finishes? 

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