One of the more popular responses from NFL pundits after Johnson received his suspension was about how Mike Tomlin handled the receiver.
Although Johnson caused plenty of drama in Pittsburgh, none of it was bad enough for him to receive a team suspension. Then during his first season with a different organization, just five weeks into his tenure with a Super Bowl contending AFC team, he receives a suspension.
“Put Mike Tomlin in the Hall of Fame and give him a Nobel Peace Prize while we’re at it,” wrote Fantasy Football analyst Scott Barrett on X. “+Antonio Brown, +Diontae Johnson, +George Pickens, +Chase Claypool, +Martavis Bryant.”
“Mike Tomlin is a wizard for putting up with Antonio Brown, Le’Veon Bell, Chase Claypool, Diontae Johnson and George Pickens,” wrote Ravens enthusiast Garrett Ferguson on X.
“The Johnson news is why you deal with Tomlin’s *slight* flaws (see late game Browns management),” wrote Fantasy Football expert Ron Stewart. “Just a fantastic leader and motivator.”
In five seasons with the Steelers, Johnson posted 391 receptions, 4,363 receiving yards and 25 touchdowns. He made second-team All-Pro as a returner in his 2019 rookie season. He then earned a Pro Bowl nomination with 107 receptions and 1,161 receiving yards with 8 touchdowns during 2021.
Johnson has 31 catches, 363 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns with the Panthers and Ravens this season.