Nov 17, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) reaches for an incomplete pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

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Texans claim ex-Ravens WR Diontae Johnson days after Ravens grab Texans WR Steven Sims

Texans moved to claim Johnson after Tank Dell suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 16

The Houston Texans added WR Diontae Johnson to their roster on Monday, December 23. This shocker came shortly after the Baltimore Ravens waived him. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, “The Texans claimed former Ravens WR Diontae Johnson on waivers three days after the Ravens claimed former Texans WR/punt returner Steven Sims on waivers.”

Trading places: The Texans claimed former Ravens WR Diontae Johnson on waivers three days after the Ravens claimed former Texans WR/punt returner Steven Sims on waivers. https://t.co/XdbOWx3x4v
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 23, 2024

Tank Dell’s injury leaves Texans thin at receiver

The Texans claimed Johnson after losing Tank Dell to a devastating knee injury during their Week 16 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs. Dell suffered a torn ACL and dislocated kneecap while hauling in a 30-yard touchdown. Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans confirmed the extent of Dell’s injury. A torn ACL and a dislocated kneecap has sidelined Dell for the season and left Houston’s offense grabbing at the edges.

Stroud just cares so much.

Prayers for Tank Dell. pic.twitter.com/1vq4Ppj1ST
— te𝕏 🌎☄️💕® (@TexanicoYT) December 21, 2024

C.J. Stroud was overcome with emotions watching Dell get injured, and how. The Texans QB called Dell his “brother” and said, “It’s not easy to see your brother go down like that after dealing with a season-ending injury last season… This isn’t the end for him; this is just another bump in the road.” Stroud will support Dell through his recovery. He also compared his situation to players like Derwin James and Jaycee Horn, who bounced back from similar setbacks.

Without Dell, the Texans’ wide receiver depth now leans on Nico Collins, John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Johnson.

Tom Brady takes aim at Diontae Johnson

During the Ravens-Steelers game, Tom Brady made a sharp comment that appeared directed at Diontae Johnson. While praising Kyle Van Noy for playing through a broken eye socket, Brady added, “I see other guys in the league walking out on their teammates because they don’t want to play.”

Tom Brady is a breath of fresh air in the broadcast booth.

Paging Diontae Johnson & De’Vondre Campbell.

Kyle Van Noy is a warrior. pic.twitter.com/nQR1zUb8dj
— Bobby Trosset (@bobbybaltim0re) December 22, 2024

The jab seemed aimed at Johnson, who was suspended earlier this month for refusing to play in the Ravens’ Week 13 loss to the Eagles. His time in Baltimore ended shortly after, with just 39 snaps and one reception for six yards.

Johnson now has a fresh start with the Texans. But questions about his commitment and consistency will follow him, especially heading into Houston’s Christmas Day showdown against his former team.

Diontae Johnson

Tank dell

Tank dell CJ Stroud

Tank dell Injury

Natasha Bose

I write about sports because, well, it brings in the big bucks! I’m not some lifelong analyst or stats guru, truth being told, you’ve probably never heard of me!—I just know how to research, write, and make things sound good. That’s the job!
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