Former NFL general manager Doug Whaley believes the Pittsburgh Steelers may have acted hastily in trading wide receiver Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers. While Johnson had reportedly become a disruptive presence in the Steelers’ locker room, Whaley suggests the team lacked a solid backup plan to replace his production. The Steelers, who have yet to find a consistent No. 2 wide receiver, seem to believe in a more organic approach to filling Johnson’s role rather than assigning specific numerical labels to their receivers.
Whaley expressed reservations about the timing of the trade, questioning whether the Steelers should have allowed Johnson an opportunity to adapt to changes in the team, including a new quarterback and offensive coordinator. He speculated that under the new system, Johnson might have reconciled his concerns and contributed positively. However, the trade sent Johnson to the Panthers in exchange for cornerback Donte Jackson, addressing what Mike Tomlin identified as a need for depth and quality in the defensive backfield.
Johnson, on his part, has embraced the move to Carolina as a fresh start after five years in Pittsburgh. Despite his surprise at the trade, he is focused on integrating into the Panthers and making an impact in the NFC. Reflecting on the Steelers’ decision, Johnson acknowledged the team’s prerogative to make the move they deemed best, emphasizing his commitment to making plays wherever he plays.
