Steelers Brass Were Absolutely Tired Of Diontae Johnson's 'Headaches'

After a tumultuous 2023 campaign that included sideline arguments and the regrettable fumble incident that showcased Johnson's apparent lack of focus, the Steelers decided it was enough. Pittsburgh had to compare the production to the distraction, and in the end, it resulted in Johnson going to Carolina. Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, in his Steelers chat on Wednesday, stated that Pittsburgh simply had enough of the negative aspects of Johnson's game.

"DJ was a good receiver, they just got tired of the headaches. It's like an old coach once told me -- when the production outweighs the aggravation, you keep him; when the aggravation outweighs the production, you get rid of them."

Johnson put together several solid seasons with the Steelers, but could never seem to get over the hill to become a true starting receiver in the NFL. When that is combined with internal issues, as Dulac stated, then the decision on whether a player is worth the frustration becomes very real. For Johnson, he used up that patience, and the Steelers ended up deciding that it was better off for the franchise to be without the elusive pass catcher.

The question is whether the Steelers' now-smaller receiver room, consisting of George Pickens and Calvin Austin III, can produce at the rate that it did when Johnson was the number one receiver. The Steelers will most likely be looking to add a veteran to the position group for experience, but there is trust between the Steelers and their receivers. The question is whether that faith can turn into success on the field.

Steelers Putting Their Eggs In Pickens' Basket

Pickens was a steal the moment he was selected by the Steelers in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft. The former Georgia collegiate product displayed a knack for catching the ball at its highest point, but there have also been issues regarding his maturity. Now that Pickens will most likely be looked to as their starting receiver in Pittsburgh, can he calm that side of his game down?

While Pickens may not be reaching Chase Claypool levels of frustration, there have been concerns. Considering what Steelers' fans saw happen with Antonio Brown, they are wary of receivers who show the the possibility of becoming a diva. Brown produced at a ridiculous rate, which helped set aside the more eyebrow-raising aspects of his game. If Pickens can find the same kind of success catching footballs for the Steelers, then a little bit of immaturity might not be too much for the team to bear.

How frustrated were you with Johnson's antics on and off the field?