New Diontae Johnson Trade Suitors Emerge With Deadline Rapidly Approaching
By Jovan Alford
As we get closer to next week’s NFL trade deadline, the more likely it is that the Carolina Panthers will move on from veteran wide receiver Diontae Johnson.
Johnson is now the premier receiving target ahead of the deadline after Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Christian Kirk suffered a season-ending injury. The Panthers acquired the veteran wide receiver from the Pittsburgh Steelers in the offseason to bolster a passing game that struggled in 2023.
Despite the Panthers’ issues under center, Johnson leads the team in targets (58), receptions (30), receiving yards (357), and tied with rookie Xavier Legette in touchdowns (3).
According to Joe Person of The Athletic, the feeling around the league is that Johnson’s time with the Panthers could end soon. Person mentioned Johnson started missing practices for rest/ailments and was ruled out for Carolina’s Week 8 matchup after not practicing for two straight weeks.
The Panthers beat writer also said the team should be able to land a fifth-round pick for the veteran wide receiver and lists the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, San Francisco 49ers, Washington Commanders, Los Angeles Chargers, or Houston Texans as potential options.
It was reported last weekend that the Panthers were seeking a mid-round pick, but if the going rate for Johnson is a fifth-round pick, they might need to settle for that.
On paper, the offseason acquisition of Johnson was great for the offense. However, things have gone well for the Panthers on both sides of the ball. Therefore, the next best option is to get draft capital in exchange for the veteran pass catcher.
With Stefon Diggs suffering a torn ACL, the Texans could be the perfect match for Johnson, who is looking to boost his value heading into free agency next offseason.
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