“What a Career Falloff”: Fans React to Cleveland Browns Cutting Embattled WR

As previously discussed on Gridiron Heroics, Cleveland Browns’ Pro Bowl wide receiver Diontae Johnson faced a make-or-break offseason after signing a one-year contract with no guaranteed money in May, hoping to avoid replicating last season’s tumultuous 2024 campaign, where he spent time with four teams. The Pittsburgh Steelers traded him to the Carolina Panthers in April, and he was later traded to the Baltimore Ravens in  October. The Ravens released Johnson in Week 16 after suspending him in Week 15 for refusing to play in Week 13. He then signed with the Houston Texans only to be cut following their Wild Card victory after an outburst over playing time.

Also Read: Cleveland Browns: Why Embattled Veteran Must Capitalize on Opportunity

Cleveland Browns’ embattled WR had a rough offseason

Diontae Johnson had a rough offseason, making a poor first impression by skipping voluntary OTAs and then struggling with drops while adjusting to the new offense. Because the Pro Bowler failed to stand out, the emergence of Cedric Tillman, Jamari Thrash, Gage Larvadain, and Isaiah Bond further hindered his chances of making the 53-man roster. Finally, Johnson finished with a lackluster preseason, recording just two receptions on six targets for 19 yards.

The Browns had until Tuesday at 3 PM CST to finalize the initial 53-man roster.

Cleveland Browns make major decision on embattled WR’s future

According to Adam Schefter, the Browns have released Diontae Johnson. Since he is a vested veteran, he will not be subject to the waiver wire and can sign with any team. Unfortunately, Johnson was unable to revive his career in Cleveland, putting the 29-year-old’s future in doubt.

Browns are releasing veteran WR Diontae Johnson, per source.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 26, 2025

Fans react to the news

What a career falloff

— Jeremy Branham (@JeremyBranham) August 26, 2025

Start learning UFL buddy

— KFP (@KFP1992) August 26, 2025

This guy was supposed to be a star not long ago

— Jakobius (@SamiusSt) August 26, 2025

I’m old enough to remember when Diontae Johnson was a thing.

— Michael Hauff (@TheFFRealist) August 26, 2025

Biggest falloff since Todd Gurley

— CantaLoupe (@CantALoupe_FF) August 26, 2025

Bro went from up and comer to league pass around real quick

— Fantasy Unfiltered (@nofilterfantasy) August 26, 2025

Pittsburgh knows when to move a WR 🤷‍♂️

— Travis and Jon Show (@TravisJonShow) August 26, 2025

Soon as wrs leave Pittsburgh, they are cooked

— Numbz (Numbz Music) (@Numbz16) August 26, 2025

“Veteran” yeah it’s over bro

— Mike’s Takes (@mikee_takes) August 26, 2025

Dude fell off so hard

— 3xProp🤞 (@3xProp) August 26, 2025

He fell off since leaving Pittsburgh.

— Michael Rodnick (@MJRodnick) August 26, 2025

He got showed that he’s not bigger then the program

— Furious Styles (@Bink2200) August 26, 2025

Ahhh yes. The tale as old as time 😂

— LeatherBrainz (@leatherbrainz) August 26, 2025

bro couldn’t make the Browns’ 53 man he might be cooked

— kam (@kampagnepapi) August 26, 2025

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