As the NFL season progresses, fantasy football enthusiasts are constantly faced with tough decisions regarding their rosters. One of the most pressing questions this season has been, "Should I keep Diontae Johnson?" The Pittsburgh Steelers receiver has shown flashes of brilliance, but is he worth holding onto? In this article, we will explore the intricacies of Johnson's performance, his potential impact on your fantasy team, and the various factors that could influence your decision to keep or drop him.
With the fantasy playoffs approaching, the stakes are higher than ever. Many owners are left wondering if Diontae Johnson can be the reliable asset they need in their lineup or if it's time to look for alternatives. Throughout this article, we will analyze his past performances, injury history, and the current state of the Steelers' offense, allowing you to make an informed decision on whether to keep him on your roster.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to understanding Johnson's value in the context of your fantasy team. With the right information, you can weigh the pros and cons of keeping Diontae Johnson. So, let’s dive into the details and help you answer the question: Should I keep Diontae Johnson?
Who Is Diontae Johnson? A Brief Biography
Diontae Johnson was born on July 5, 1996, in the city of Toledo, Ohio. He played college football at the University of Toledo before being drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Since then, Johnson has established himself as a key player for the Steelers, thanks to his exceptional route-running skills and ability to make plays after the catch.
| Personal Details | Bio Data |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 5, 1996 |
| College | University of Toledo |
| Draft Year | 2019 |
| Team | Pittsburgh Steelers |
| Position | Wide Receiver |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in |
| Weight | 183 lbs |
How Has Diontae Johnson Performed This Season?
Diontae Johnson's performance in the current NFL season has been a mixed bag. While he began the season strong, his production has fluctuated due to various factors. Let's break down his season:
- Strong Start: Johnson showcased his potential early in the season with several impressive performances.
- Injuries: Injuries have impacted his time on the field, limiting his opportunities to contribute.
- Quarterback Play: The performance of Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett has also influenced Johnson's output.
- Consistency: Despite some ups and downs, Johnson has maintained a decent target share, indicating that he's still a focal point in the Steelers’ offense.
Should I Keep Diontae Johnson in My Fantasy Team?
This season, the question of whether to keep Diontae Johnson on your fantasy roster is not as straightforward as it seems. To help you make this decision, consider the following points:
What Are the Alternatives?
Before dropping Johnson, it's essential to evaluate the alternatives available in your league. Are there waiver-wire pickups that could provide more consistent production? Assess the following:
- Upcoming Matchups: Are there receivers with favorable matchups in the coming weeks?
- Injury Updates: Are there injured players returning that could reclaim their spot as top receivers?
- Overall Performance: How have other receivers performed compared to Johnson?
What Is Diontae Johnson's Injury Status?
Injuries have plagued Johnson during the season, raising concerns about his availability and performance. Keeping tabs on his injury status and recovery timeline is crucial. Here are some things to consider:
- Current Injuries: Is Johnson dealing with any lingering injuries that could limit his effectiveness?
- Return Timeline: When is he expected to return to full health?
- Impact of Injury: How have his injuries affected his playing style and performance this season?
What Does the Steelers' Offense Look Like?
The performance of the Pittsburgh Steelers' offense can significantly impact Johnson's fantasy value. Here are some factors to consider:
How Is Kenny Pickett Performing?
Kenny Pickett's development as a young quarterback is crucial for the success of Johnson and the Steelers' offense. Analyzing Pickett's performance can help you understand Johnson's potential:
- Completion Percentage: Is Pickett showing improvement in his accuracy and decision-making?
- Connection with Johnson: Are the two developing a chemistry that could benefit Johnson's production?
- Offensive Line Play: How is the offensive line performing in terms of protection and run blocking?
Will the Steelers Make Adjustments?
As the season progresses, teams often make adjustments to their offensive strategies. Will the Steelers change their approach to better utilize Johnson's talents? Consider the following:
- Offensive Schemes: Are there any changes in play-calling that could benefit Johnson?
- Usage Rate: Will Johnson see an increase in targets as the team aims to improve offensive efficiency?
- Game Script: How might the game script of upcoming matchups affect Johnson's role?
What Are the Pros and Cons of Keeping Diontae Johnson?
In weighing the decision to keep Diontae Johnson, it’s essential to consider both the advantages and disadvantages:
Pros
- High Target Share: Johnson has consistently been a key target in the Steelers' passing game.
- Playmaking Ability: His ability to make big plays can result in high fantasy point totals.
- Potential Upside: If the Steelers' offense finds its rhythm, Johnson could thrive.
Cons
- Injury Concerns: His injury history raises doubts about his reliability.
- Inconsistent Quarterback Play: The uncertainty at the quarterback position could limit his production.
- Alternative Options: There may be more consistent players available in free agency.
Final Thoughts: Should I Keep Diontae Johnson?
In conclusion, the question of "Should I keep Diontae Johnson?" ultimately depends on your specific fantasy team situation. Analyzing his performance, understanding the Steelers’ offensive dynamics, keeping an eye on his health, and evaluating alternatives will help you make the best decision for your fantasy roster. If Johnson can regain his early-season form and the Steelers' offense begins to click, he may prove to be a valuable asset as the playoffs approach. However, if injuries persist or production continues to wane, it may be time to consider other options.
