It will be a different training camp for the Pittsburgh Steelers because Ben Roethlisberger has retired.
Trying to take his place are quarterbacks Mitchell Trubisky, Kenny Pickett, and Mason Rudolph.
But aside from not having the two-time Super Bowl winner back, there was a possibility of not having wide receiver Diontae Johnson as well.
Johnson held out in hopes of getting a contract extension like his fellow 2019 draftees Deebo Samuel, Terry McLaurin, and DK Metcalf.
Finally, he will join that group as NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo shared an update regarding his contract situation.
The #Steelers and WR Diontae Johnson have agreed on a two-year, $36.71 million extension, source says. The sides worked last night and this morning to end his hold-in with a shorter deal than we’ve seen from others that allows him to be a free agent again after the 2024 season.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) August 4, 2022
Garafolo tweeted, “The #Steelers and WR Diontae Johnson have agreed on a two-year, $36.71 million extension, source says. The sides worked last night and this morning to end his hold-in with a shorter deal than we’ve seen from others that allow him to be a free agent again after the 2024 season.”
Aside from signing a shorter deal, his annual average value is also below $20 million.
It’s the threshold that the elite wideouts surpassed throughout this offseason.
But what’s important is that Johnson remains in Pittsburgh and retains a solid receiving corps with Chase Claypool and George Pickens.
Najee Harris will also display his versatility while Pat Freiermuth has been a revelation last season.
Quick Details Of Johnson’s Career
The former Toledo standout had a breakout 2021 season with 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns.
The year before, he had 923 yards and seven touchdowns.
In his rookie season, he finished with 680 yards and five touchdowns.
Johnson averages 10.9 yards per catch and also has a return touchdown to his credit.
He will be a vital asset in the Steelers’ pass attack which will be helpful in defeating their division rivals.
Whoever becomes their starting quarterback will gain some confidence with him coming back.
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