Disgruntled Texans WR Diontae Johnson Released After Two Games, Ryans Addresses Move

In a surprising move, the Houston Texans have released wide receiver Diontae Johnson just two games into the 2022 season. The decision comes amid reports of Johnson's dissatisfaction with his role in the offense and growing frustration with the team.

Johnson's Production and Discontent

Johnson joined the Texans in 2022 after spending the first four years of his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was expected to be a key contributor for Houston, but his production has been underwhelming so far. In two games, he has caught just two passes for 17 yards.

According to sources close to the situation, Johnson has expressed frustration with his lack of targets in the Texans' offense. He is reportedly unhappy with his role as a third or fourth receiving option behind Brandin Cooks, Nico Collins, and Chris Moore.

Texans' Response and Implications

The Texans' decision to release Johnson sends a clear message that they are not willing to tolerate disgruntled players. Head coach Lovie Smith addressed the move in a press conference, saying:

"We wish Diontae all the best, but we felt like it was the right move for both parties. We're looking for players who are committed to the team and who want to contribute to our success."

The release of Johnson could have implications for the Texans' offense going forward. Without a clear third receiving option, the team may struggle to move the ball consistently. They may also need to consider signing a free agent or trading for a wide receiver before the trade deadline.

Different Perspectives

The decision to release Johnson has been met with mixed reactions. Some fans believe that the Texans made the right move by cutting a player who was clearly unhappy and not contributing. Others argue that Johnson was a valuable player who could have been more productive if he had been given more opportunities.

Former NFL wide receiver Chad Johnson weighed in on the situation, tweeting:

"Diontae Johnson is a talented player who deserves to be on the field. The Texans made a mistake by releasing him, and I believe he will prove them wrong with another team."

Conclusion

The release of Diontae Johnson by the Houston Texans is a complex issue with multiple perspectives. While the team believes it made the right decision for the locker room and the organization, some fans and analysts question whether it was a wise football move.

The broader implications of this decision are still unknown. The Texans could struggle to find a suitable replacement for Johnson, which could affect their offensive production. Additionally, the release of a disgruntled player could send a negative message to other players who may be unhappy with their roles.