For lack of better words, 2023 was a rollercoaster season for veteran receiver Diontae Johnson.
After being sidelined for almost two months, he would return in Week 7 against the Los Angeles Rams. Johnson would play a big role in their win, making timely catches. This past weekend against the Baltimore Ravens, Johnson would come big in the fourth quarter with a 71-yard touchdown, which would restore the Steelers lead in a game that almost eluded them. Johnson's heroics guided the team to a big win and a spot in the playoffs.
Johnson is still the reliable playmaker the Steelers selected in 2019 despite the criticism he has faced this season. Johnson recovered this season with five receiving touchdowns, matching the team lead in this category with George Pickens, after concluding the 2022 campaign without a score.
With Pickens garnering the attention of opposing defenses, Johnson's production will be needed more than ever if they look to pull off a big upset over the Buffalo Bills this weekend. One should expect the Steelers ground offense to be limited by the Bills defense front, making Johnson's presence that much more crucial.
In two career playoff games, Johnson has registered 26 receptions for 151 yards with a touchdown while averaging 9.4 yards per reception.