The Pittsburgh Steelers just arrived in Latrobe for training camp on Tuesday and knocked out their first practice on Wednesday. The Steelers have a few questions entering training camp and one of the biggest questions involves contract negotiations with WR Diontae Johnson.
There seems to be a little bit of miscommunication with Johnson and HC Mike Tomlin about practice participation amid those contract negotiations.
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) makes a catch for a touchdown against the Los Angeles Chargers during the first half of an NFL football game as Sunday, Nov. 21, 2021, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
After Wednesday's practice, Tomlin spoke to the media about Johnson and his practice participation.
“Absolutely not, you guys know me," Tomlin stated in his presser. "I acknowledge that he was less than a hundred percent participant and we will continue to manage the circumstance. But right now my energy and focus are on those that are participating.”
PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 05: Diontae Johnson #18 of the Pittsburgh Steelers reacts after scoring a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at Heinz Field on December 05, 2021 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
“I mean, I want to be here," Johnson said via Josh Rowntree of 93.7 The Fan. "I want to be here long-term, [but] that’s up to them,” Johnson said via Rowntree. “Just going to keep doing what I’m doing.”
The Steelers' star receiver wants to be with the team long term and he's not alone while advocating for a new contract.
Future 1st-ballot Pro Football Hall of Fame QB Ben Roethlisberger feels that his former teammate is deserving of a new deal. Roethlisberger joined Randy Baumann and the ‘DVE Morning Show to talk about several topics including Johnson's contract situation with the franchise.
"I don't know if they're going to get something done. I know he probably wants something. I think he deserves a contract."
Roethlisberger also stated that he has recently texted Johnson before the team reported to Saint Vincent College.
"I just told him, 'listen, you are an unbelievable football player.' I know it can get frustrating."
Credit: Patrick McDermott/Getty Images
What are yinz thoughts on Roethlisberger advocating for a new deal for his former teammate Johnson?
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