In the year 2021, Diontae Johnson showcased his skills and talent by earning a spot in the prestigious Pro Bowl, hinting at a promising future as one of the top wide receivers in the NFL. However, his performance took a dip in the following seasons as the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offense faced challenges and struggled to find its rhythm.
As a result, the 28-year-old receiver found himself being traded to the Carolina Panthers in the offseason. The Panthers, under the guidance of new head coach Dave Canales, have high hopes for Johnson and envision him as the focal point of their offensive strategy.
“When we are developing our offensive game plan, our main focus is on Diontae Johnson and how we can effectively utilize his skills on the field,” Canales expressed in a statement to The Associated Press.
Canales emphasized his intention to utilize Johnson’s versatility by moving him around the formation to create mismatches with defenders. During training camp, the Panthers experimented with having Johnson line up in the backfield, showcasing their commitment to maximizing his impact on the field. The coach remained unfazed by concerns about opposing defenses keying in on Johnson.
“While it’s understandable for defenses to anticipate Johnson’s presence, it can work to our advantage,” Canales explained. “By drawing attention to Diontae, it opens up opportunities for other players on the field. Our quarterback’s patience in going through his progressions and finding the open targets will ultimately lead to success for our entire offense.”
As the Panthers gear up for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Diontae Johnson as he embarks on a new chapter in his career with Carolina, eager to prove that he can reclaim his status as one of the league’s elite wide receivers.
