The Houston Texans moved swiftly to bolster their receiving corps on Monday, claiming Diontae Johnson off waivers following Tank Dell’s devastating knee injury.
The move came after Dell suffered a torn ACL and dislocated kneecap during the Texans’ 27-19 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, sidelining him for the remainder of the season.
However, it has now been revealed that the Texans weren’t alone in their pursuit of Johnson.
ESPN’s Field Yates reported that the Los Angeles Chargers also placed a waiver claim for the wide receiver, setting up another potential Harbaugh-to-Harbaugh connection.
However, Houston’s higher waiver priority secured Johnson’s services, addressing their pressing need at the position with both Dell and two-time All-Pro Stefon Diggs now out for the season.
Besides the Texans, one other team attempted to claim WR Diontae Johnson off of waivers, per source: the Chargers.
Houston had priority over Los Angeles, as two wideout-needy team competing in the AFC claimed Johnson.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) December 23, 2024
Johnson’s arrival in Houston follows a tumultuous stint with the Baltimore Ravens that lasted just seven weeks.
The relationship soured after the Ravens suspended him for refusing to play in a loss against the Philadelphia Eagles last month.
The situation deteriorated further when the team excused him from all team activities last week, ultimately leading to his release on Friday.
Before his brief Ravens tenure, Johnson had shown promise as Bryce Young’s primary target in Carolina, hauling in 30 catches for 257 yards and three touchdowns in seven games before being traded for a fifth-round pick.
Now, the Texans are banking on Johnson rediscovering that form as they prepare for a Christmas Day showdown against his former team, the Ravens.
The timing adds an intriguing subplot to Johnson’s arrival in Houston, as he’ll have a chance to face the Ravens just weeks after his departure.
NEXT: Texans Make Move At WR After Tank Dell’s Injury
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