The Cleveland Browns failed to address their wide receiver position in free agency and the 2025 NFL Draft despite it being a glaring need. The offense lacks a definitive, clear-cut number two receiver, and their depth is thin in experience. Cedric Tillman, their projected WR2, has concussion issues and missed the last six games of 2024 as a result, and Jamari Thrash, their projected WR3, was limited to 22 yards as a rookie.
The Cleveland Browns brought in an embattled receiver last week
On Monday, April 28, the Browns signed Pro Bowl receiver Diontae Johnson to a one-year deal. Johnson had a tumultuous and volatile 2024 season, spending time with four separate teams, as he was traded twice and cut twice. He finished the year posting career lows in receptions and receiving yards with 33 receptions for 375 yards and three touchdowns in 12 regular-season games and one reception for 12 yards in the Wild Card.
The Pittsburgh Steelers traded Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers during the offseason. Johnson hauled in 30 receptions for 357 yards and three touchdowns in seven games and 337 snaps before he was dealt during the NFL Trade Deadline.
The Carolina Panthers traded Diontae Johnson to the Baltimore Ravens. Johnson had one reception for six yards in four games and 39 snaps. The Ravens suspended him in Week 15 for refusing to play in Week 13 against the Philadelphia Eagles and later released him during Week 16.
Also Read: Baltimore Ravens: Front Office Releases Statement Regarding Disgruntled Pro Bowler’s Week 15 Suspension, “Traded For Him For No Reason!”: Fans Clown the Baltimore Ravens After Dismissing Disgruntled Receiver from Team Activities for Week 16
The Houston Texans claimed Diontae Johnson off waivers for Week 17. Johnson finished his stint with three receptions for 24 yards in two games and 38 snaps. The Texans waived the disgruntled Pro Bowler because of his frustration about his minimal role and having to be calmed down by teammates following their Wild Card victory.
The Cleveland Browns’ WR’s contract has been revealed
According to Field Yates of ESPN, the Browns signed Diontae Johnson to a one-year deal worth the league minimum of $1.17 million and zero guaranteed money. Although Yates likens Johnson’s contract to “a zero-risk deal for Cleveland,” he fails to mention the risks of bringing in the embattled veteran and why he must capitalize on the opportunity.
Diontae Johnson’s 1-year contract with the Browns is for the veteran’s minimum of $1.17M and does not include any guaranteed money.
A zero-risk deal for Cleveland, while Johnson will work to reestablish his value at still just 28 years old.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) May 6, 2025
Why the embattled veteran must capitalize on the opportunity
Diontae Johnson must capitalize on the opportunity with the Browns for three reasons. First, since he signed a league-minimum contract without any guaranteed money, the front office can release Johnson without any penalty or dead cap if he messes up. Second, if the Pro Bowler matures and plays well in Cleveland, they may sign him to a lucrative contract extension or sign elsewhere for a reasonable price next offseason. Finally, if he messes up, he may not be given another shot in the NFL, and he may face an early retirement.
Will he make the most of the opportunity, or will he replicate 2024?
