If Steelers fans were concerned about a possible ‘hold-in’ from the teams top pass catcher, they have an answer. Diontae Johnson sat out of the team portion of drills on Day 1 of camp. He could be seen catching passes from a staffer on the sideline.
“I want to be here long-term. But that’s up to them.” Johnson said, via Brian Batko of the Pittsburgh Post Gazette. “I’m just going to keep doing what I’m doing.”
Johnson led the Steelers in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns in 2021. His absence is not ideal with a quarterback battle between Mitch Trubisky, Kenny Pickett and Mason Rudolph.
Reports surfaced in early July suggesting the Steelers organization do not intend to extend the wide receiver. Historically, the Steelers have a good reputation of drafting and molding wide receivers. New general manager Omar Khan could be holding out to see how new draft picks George Pickens and Calvin Austin III fit into the mold as well.
Head coach Mike Tomlin stated it was not his decision to have Johnson do less than his other teammates. Tomlin also stated he didn’t see it as a big deal and would devote his ‘energy and focus’ to the players on the field.
Linebacker T.J. Watt took a similar approach during training camp before signing an extension before the 2021 season. Only time will tell if Johnson gets his deal before kickoff of the regular season.