The Steelers have more problems with their offense than we can count on two hands. Fans are adamant that offensive coordinator Matt Canada needs to be fired at this point, while others have lost all hope in quarterback Kenny Pickett. One issue on offense that isn't talked about enough is the lack of separation Pittburgh's wide receivers have been getting.
Since Diontae Johnson went down with a hamstring injury on September 10th, the Steelers have been without a player on their offense who can routinely create separation in the receiving game. Though Johnson wasn't efficient in 2022, his presence has been sorely missed early this season for Pittsburgh.
Johnson's hamstring injury was severe enough to land him on injured reserve, but the hope was that he could return following the team's bye week. The Steelers are currently on their Week 6 bye following a crazy win over the Ravens in Week 5. Will Diontae Johnson be returning in time for their next game?
Diontae Johnson injury status for Week 7 against Rams
Diontae Johnson spoke with the media on Tuesday and offered good news to Pittsburgh Steelers fans. The veteran wide receiver ensures that he will be suiting up and playing against the Los Angeles Rams next week following the bye.
Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson says “hell yeah” he’s going to play against the L.A. Rams in Week 7 after the team returns from the bye.
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) October 10, 2023
He’s been on IR with a hamstring injury sustained in Week 1. pic.twitter.com/yBowfn4x7L
Johnson claims that he is healthy and ready to go. For how poorly things have gone on offense for Kenny Pickett and company so far, the Steelers are fortunate to be in a situation where they are 3-2 entering the bye week. The return of Johnson could offer a much-needed spark to one of the league's worst offenses so far in 2023.
Diontae Johnson injury history
- Sept. 2020: Pedal Foot Sprain (missed practice time)
- Sept. 2020: Pedal Toe Sprain (missed practice time)
- Sept. 2020: Concussion Grade 1 (missed practice time, but cleared for next game)
- Oct. 2020: Lower Back Sprain (missed one game)
- Sept. 2021: Knee Strain Grade 1(missed one game)
- Jan. 2022: Chest Rib Strain/Pull (missed practice time)
- Sept. 2023: Hamstring Sprain/Pull Grade 1 (landed on IR to return)
When is Diontae Johnson coming back?
Diontae Johnson is on track to play when the Pittsburgh Steelers travel to face the Los Angeles Rams in Week 7, barring an injury setback. He has confirmed this to the media. Johnson still has two weeks to prepare for this game, as Pittsburgh is on a Week 6 bye.
Pittsburgh Steelers next 5 opponents
- Los Angeles Rams, Sunday, Oct. 22
- Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Oct. 29
- Tennessee Titans, Thursday, Nov. 2
- Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Nov. 12
- Cleveland Browns, Sunday, Nov. 19