Latest dynasty outlook of Diontae Johnson
By: Jake Rajala
Diontae Johnson was a monster in 2021, as he recorded career highs in: receptions (107), targets (169) yards (1,161 yds), and touchdowns (8). His production spoke for himself, as he was a Top-10 fantasy WR in PPR (9th in points per game) in 2021. Johnson rightfully garnered a Pro Bowl spot last season, via his tremendous third season in the league.
It’s obvious that Johnson was from another planet last season, but the question is: can Johnson be a potent WR in the new-look Steelers offense? Well, I believe he certainly will be a stat machine for Mitchell Trubisky, as he seems to be logical 2022 starter.
Per Behind the Steelers Curtain, the Steelers fans also believe Trubisky is in line to be the QB1.
There are two important factors revolving the Steelers QB change. For 1. Big Ben was far from excellent in 2021. The Steelers QB legend threw 22 touchdowns, 6.2 Y/A, and unveiled 3,740 yds. For 2. Trubisky (assuming he gets the Week 1 keys to the offense), can likely be an upgrade over the 2021 version of Roethlisberger in a Steelers uniform. Trubisky threw 24 touchdowns in 14 games as a sophomore QB in a worse situation. I still believe that the Nagy-less version of Trubisky can at least oust a season similar to his 2018 season.
I actually believe there is a strong chance that Trubisky is the 2023 starter. It may seem sexy to say Trubisky is the “mentor” but he is only 27 (28 in August) at this moment. It should also be noted that Pickett doesn’t appear to have an impressive ceiling.
Johnson will not only be heavily targeted (perhaps a bit less than 2021), but he will excel in the deep-passing game with his new QB. I understand that the former Steelers QB won two Super Bowls and somehow receives a legacy comparison to Aaron Rodgers, but I believe that Johnson will continue to climb the ladder with a more explosive QB-mate in 2022. Trust in Johnson (and his contract year) and his long-term outlook as a Steeler in the JuJu-less offense, as the Pickett Trubisky-Johnson connection should thrive.
