Pittsburgh Steelers' wide receiver, Diontae Johnson is a certified, bona fide, stud ... and a clear WR1 in the National Football League. Let me just get that out of the way for starters. Johnson finished tied for 5th in receptions in 2021, 10th in receiving yards, and tied for second in targets.
As Steeler Nation is already aware, Johnson has yet to show up to organized team activities (OTA's) this summer for the Steelers, but he wants everyone to not jump so fast to conclusions as to why. Sunday night, he took to Twitter and had a message for his critics:
Don’t judge my choices without understanding my reasons..
— Diontae Johnson (@Juiceup__3) May 30, 2022
"Don't judge my choices without understanding my reasons.." the tweet by Johnson said.
Pittsburgh Steelers' wide receiver, Diontae Johnson (#18) poses at Heinz Field in 2021. | Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO
Johnson finished the 2021-22 season with 107 receptions for 1,167 yards and 8 touchdowns (career highs). He started in 14 of 16 regular season games and averaged 10.9 yards per catch (also both career highs). He made his first Pro Bowl and the bottom line is that the Steelers would've been lost without him on offense last season.
So after such a productive year, one would hope that Johnson would want to continue to improve on that for 2022, right?
Well... who's to say he doesn't?
After much speculation so far this off-season, fans continue to wonder if Johnson is "unhappy" with his current contract situation. Johnson is currently on his rookie deal and is set to make $2,790,000 in 2022 according to spotrac. With names like Davante Adams, Tyreek Hill, and even Christian Kirk all on new teams heading into the new season, along with more robust contracts of $20M+ each, one could assume Johnson is thinking he deserves a new and improved contract as well.
So what's the real reasoning Johnson isn't currently working out with his teammates at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex in Pittsburgh? Johnson also retweeted a few posts this week from Seattle Seahawks' wide receiver, Tyler Lockett for a little more insight:
— Diontae Johnson (@Juiceup__3) May 29, 2022
"As I get older I gotta be more mindful of protecting my peace," Lockett said.
Spending time with myself is something that is much needed. Gotta start paying myself more attention!
— Tyler Lockett (@TDLockett12) May 30, 2022
"Spending time with myself is something that is much needed. Gotta start paying myself more attention!"
We continue to get a better sense of where Johnson's head is at currently with his recent thoughts on social media. It seems as if Johnson is prioritizing his mental health and well-being first and foremost, before reengaging with his teammates full-time. If that's what he feels is best for him at this current point in his career, can we really blame him?
Talk to God on ur best days too 🙏🏾
— Diontae Johnson (@Juiceup__3) May 30, 2022
I don't believe it's a matter of if, but when Johnson decides to return to the team this season, he'll look to help running back, Najee Harris, and tight end, Pat Freiermuth, lead an extremely young offense including a new quarterback under center who might not be named until early September. If the Steelers are going to make any noise in 2022 and improve their offense, Johnson will be vital in doing so.
Pittsburgh Steelers' wide receiver, Diontae Johnson (#18) and running back, Najee Harris (#22) celebrate at Heinz Field. | Photo via Pro Football Talk
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