Pro Bowl WR Diontae Johnson’s NFL journey has been full of highs and lows over the past two years. Since leaving the Steelers in 2023 after five seasons, Johnson’s career trajectory has taken a drastic turn, failing to secure a long-term role.
Johnson had been part of 3 teams with short stints before finally signing with the Cleveland Browns on April 28, 2025. However, the Browns released him on Tuesday as teams finalized their 53-man roster for the new season, putting Johnson back on the free-agent market.
Johnson’s career highlights include a standout 2021 season, during which he recorded 1,161 receiving yards with eight touchdowns and earned a Pro Bowl selection. Now the proven playmaker is searching for another opportunity. Here are the 5 teams thats should chase Diantae Johnson.
5 Best Landing Spots for Diontae Johnson
1) Pittsburgh Steelers
Could a return to the Steelers, where Johnson posted the best numbers of his career, be on the horizon? Although his departure from Pittsburgh wasn’t without controversy, the team is pushing all-in this season, and adding depth at receiver could be crucial.
DIONTAE JOHNSON. 71 YARDS. FOR THE LEAD.
— NFL (@NFL) January 6, 2024
đź“ş: #PITvsBAL on ESPN/ABC
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/WxnOXJY8R6 pic.twitter.com/BjXNi3SPGM
Since leaving the Steelers, Johnson’s career has faced instability, with choices and circumstances that have not panned out as hoped. Rejoining a familiar environment could offer him a chance to reset his reputation and prove he still belongs among the league’s top receivers.
2) New England Patriots
The New England Patriots’ offense looks promising in 2025, especially with rookie TreVeyon Henderson making an impact. Johnson could join the receiver rotation behind Stefon Diggs, Demario Douglas, and Kyle Williams, initially competing for reps with Mack Hollins, Kayshon Boutte, and Kendrick Bourne. He may even start on the practice squad before earning playing time.
3) Minnesota Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings may look to Johnson to fill a temporary gap at wide receiver, with Jordan Addison suspended and Jalen Nailor nursing a hand injury. With Rondale Moore out for the season, Johnson could provide immediate support and help give J.J. McCarthy reliable targets early in his career.
4) San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers, dealing with multiple wide receiver injuries, could turn to Johnson as a potential option. With starters Brandon Aiyuk, Jauan Jennings, Jacob Cowing, Jordan Watkins, and Demarcus Robinson sidelined for Week 1, Johnson could fill a key role as the team continues to explore the receiver market.
5) New York Jets
The New York Jets enter the season with modest expectations, and Johnson could provide depth at wide receiver. Behind Garrett Wilson, Josh Reynolds, and Allen Lazard, Johnson could compete for playing time and offer a quick, versatile option after the main rotation, especially after the release of Malachi Corley.
