NFL Rumors: Super Bowl champions leaning toward claiming Diontae Johnson on waivers
The Kansas City Chiefs are eyeing wide receiver Diontae Johnson after his surprising release by the Baltimore Ravens on Friday. At 13-1, the defending Super Bowl champions want to bolster their receiving corps ahead of what looks to be another deep playoff push.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Johnson is "likely to be claimed on waivers Monday." The Chiefs have shown strong interest, but their NFL-best record places them last in the waiver priority order.
Diontae Johnson's 2024 season has been a tale of two trades. He began with Carolina, where he quickly became its offensive catalyst. He led the Panthers through seven games with 30 catches, 357 receiving yards and three touchdown grabs.
His fortunes changed after an Oct. 29 trade to Baltimore. The Ravens hoped he would energize their passing attack, but Diontae Johnson managed just one reception for 6 yards across four games and 39 offensive snaps.
The situation deteriorated when Johnson refused to participate in Baltimore's Week 13 matchup against Philadelphia. This led to a suspension for conduct detrimental to the team. By Monday, the Ravens announced they had "mutually agreed with Diontae Johnson to excuse him from team activities this week."
Chiefs' competition for Diontae Johnson heats up
Kansas City sees Johnson as a potential complementary piece to its current receiver trio of DeAndre Hopkins, Marquise "Hollywood" Brown and Xavier Worthy. Yet several obstacles stand in the way.
The Los Angeles Chargers present serious competition. Beyond rookie Ladd McConkey, quarterback Justin Herbert lacks consistent receiving options. While Quentin Johnston and Joshua Palmer show flashes, their production varies from game to game.
The waiver system adds complexity to Kansas City's pursuit. Division rival Denver might claim Johnson just to keep him away from the Chiefs and Chargers. The Broncos need to receive help opposite Courtland Sutton.
Other playoff hopefuls with higher waiver priority could also derail Kansas City's plans. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Indianapolis Colts, Houston Texans and Washington Commanders all need receiver help.
The New York Giants hold top waiver priority, followed by the Las Vegas Raiders. This positioning means Kansas City needs numerous teams to pass on Johnson before it can add the former Steelers draft pick to its roster.
Monday's waiver claims will determine Johnson's next destination. While the Chiefs' interest shows their commitment to offensive excellence, their low-priority position makes acquiring the 28-year-old receiver an uphill battle.