3 reasons Steelers can’t bench Diontae Johnson for James Washington

What Johnson offers

On the flip side of things, Johnson’s style of play is much better suited to this offense. That said, he has a glaring issue that needs to be resolved: his drops. As of now, he has 12 drops on the season, a glaring number that makes him a risk to be out on the field. That said, he has shown just what the reward can be when he is catching the ball.

Without question, Johnson is the most effective receiver with the ball in his hands. He can make any defender miss due to his elite agility on the field. Over half of his receiving yards have come after the catch, a testament to his ability to make guys miss. As well, he may be the best route runner of the receivers, as his routes are sharp. Even better, he can win deep as well. Looking past his drops, he may be the best overall receiver on the roster right now.

The best argument for him right now is the fact that the Steelers offense is focused on the short passing game. The team can get the ball into Johnson’s hands quickly and allow him to make the big plays after the catch. The Steelers subscribed to this plan often during games, as he was by far the most targeted receiver on the team despite him missing time with injuries. The team knows how effective he can be, and that’s why it’s been hard for the Steelers to completely bench him.

Are his drops an issue? Obviously, but that doesn’t mean that Johnson isn’t talented. Based on how the offense is trying to be right now, Johnson is the best bet to keep the ball moving. He can turn any short play into a huge gain, and while his drops are infuriating, he is a risk/reward receiver right now. Unless the Steelers offense gets the deep ball going again, Johnson continues to be the best fit as a receiver in this scheme.