Diontae Lamarcus Johnson, born on July 5, 1996, in Tampa, Florida, is an accomplished wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL). Known for his agility, precise route running, and ability to make clutch plays, Johnson has played for several NFL teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers, Carolina Panthers, Baltimore Ravens, and Houston Texans. Despite a promising start to his career, his journey has been marked by both triumphs and challenges.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore Diontae Johnson’s life, career statistics, family, net worth, and the controversies that have shaped his NFL tenure.
Diontae Johnson Short Details
| Full Name | Diontae Lamarcus Johnson |
|---|---|
| Profession | NFL Wide Receiver |
| Hometown | Tampa, Florida, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Date of Birth | July 5, 1996 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 28 |
| Height | 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m) |
| Weight | 183 lbs (83 kg) |
| Position | Wide Receiver |
| NFL Draft | 2019 / Round 3 / Pick 66 |
| Teams Played For | Steelers, Panthers, Ravens, Texans |
| Pro Bowl | 2021 |
Early Life and College Career
Early Life
Diontae Johnson grew up in Tampa, Florida, and attended Earl J. Lennard High School in Ruskin, where he excelled in football. His athletic prowess and determination earned him a scholarship to play college football at the University of Toledo.
College Career
Johnson played for the Toledo Rockets from 2015 to 2018. His college career highlights include:
- Total Receptions: 135
- Receiving Yards: 2,235
- Touchdowns: 23
- Best Season: In 2017, he recorded 1,278 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns, earning First-Team All-MAC honors.
| Season | Team | Rec | Yards | Avg | TDs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Toledo | 12 | 196 | 16.3 | 2 |
| 2017 | Toledo | 74 | 1,278 | 17.3 | 13 |
| 2018 | Toledo | 49 | 761 | 15.5 | 8 |
Professional Career
Pittsburgh Steelers (2019–2023)
Drafted in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Johnson made an immediate impact with the Steelers:
- 2019: 59 receptions, 680 yards, 5 touchdowns, and named Second-Team All-Pro as a punt return specialist.
- 2021: Pro Bowl selection with 1,161 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns.
Despite individual success, his tenure in Pittsburgh included setbacks, such as injuries and criticism for lapses in effort on the field.
Carolina Panthers (2024)
Traded to the Panthers in March 2024, Johnson led the team in receiving through seven games before being sidelined by injuries. His standout game came in Week 3, with 122 yards and a touchdown.
Baltimore Ravens (2024)
Johnson joined the Ravens mid-season but was suspended after refusing to enter a game. He was released on December 20, 2024.
Houston Texans (2024–2025)
Claimed off waivers by the Texans, Johnson played two games before being waived again in January 2025. His time with the Texans was brief but contributed to their playoff success.
NFL Career Statistics
| Season | Team | Rec | Yards | TDs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Steelers | 59 | 680 | 5 |
| 2020 | Steelers | 88 | 923 | 7 |
| 2021 | Steelers | 107 | 1,161 | 8 |
| 2022 | Steelers | 86 | 882 | 0 |
| 2023 | Steelers | 51 | 717 | 5 |
| 2024 | Multiple | 33 | 375 | 3 |
Controversies and Challenges
Diontae Johnson’s career has been punctuated by notable controversies:
- Refusal to Play: In 2024, he was suspended by the Ravens for refusing to enter a game.
- Criticism in Pittsburgh: Faced backlash in 2023 for lack of hustle following a fumble.
- Frequent Team Changes: Played for four teams in a single year, reflecting a turbulent career phase.
Family and Personal Life
Diontae Johnson keeps his personal life private. He credits his family for their unwavering support throughout his career.
Net Worth and Income Sources
Diontae Johnson’s estimated net worth is $5 million as of 2025, derived from:
- NFL Salaries: Contracts with the Steelers, Panthers, Ravens, and Texans.
- Endorsements: Deals with sports brands and local businesses.
| Net Worth (2025) | $5 million |
|---|---|
| Primary Income Sources | NFL contracts |
| Additional Income | Brand endorsements |
Lesser-Known Facts About Diontae Johnson
- Johnson began playing football at age six.
- He was nicknamed “DJ” by teammates.
- His favorite route is the slant.
- Johnson has a collection of over 50 sneakers.
- He holds a record for most receptions in a season without a touchdown (2022).
- His agility drills are among the best in the NFL.
- Johnson is passionate about youth sports and hosts camps in Florida.
- He is an avid chess player.
FAQs
Q: What college did Diontae Johnson attend?
A: Johnson attended the University of Toledo.
Q: When was Diontae Johnson drafted?
A: He was drafted in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft.
Q: Has Diontae Johnson made the Pro Bowl?
A: Yes, he was selected for the Pro Bowl in 2021.
Q: Why was Diontae Johnson suspended in 2024?
A: He refused to enter a game while playing for the Baltimore Ravens.
Q: What is Diontae Johnson’s net worth?
A: As of 2025, his net worth is estimated at $5 million.
Conclusion
Diontae Johnson’s NFL journey exemplifies the highs and lows of professional sports. From Pro Bowl accolades to team suspensions, his career is a compelling narrative of talent, resilience, and redemption. As he navigates free agency, fans eagerly await his next chapter.
NOTE: This article is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to verify the details independently from reliable sources.
