In a recent trade between the Steelers and Panthers, contract-year players were exchanged. The higher-profile player in this March deal was Diontae Johnson, who moved to Carolina, while Donte Jackson now plays for Pittsburgh. Both Johnson and Jackson are entering the final year of their contracts with their new teams. This transaction has aligned Johnson’s previous contract from Pittsburgh with Bryce Young’s rookie deal in Carolina. Johnson, who signed a two-year, $36.75M contract before the 2022 season, seems open to a potential long-term stay in Charlotte. He emphasized the importance of staying focused, humble, and contributing to the team’s success to secure a contract extension. Johnson’s contract situation has been dynamic, with significant changes in the wide receiver market affecting his potential future earnings. As the WR market continues to evolve, Johnson, who will turn 28 in July, may be looking to secure a contract exceeding $20M per year based on his performance in Carolina.
Johnson has been a valuable asset for the quarterbacks, including Roethlisberger, with his clever route running and occasional drops. He had a strong season in 2021, followed by decent performances in 2020 and 2022. After improving his per-game average and scoring five touchdowns in 2022, Johnson bounced back from a hamstring injury the previous year.
In an effort to bolster Bryce Young’s receiving options, the Panthers signed Johnson and rookie Xavier Legette. Thielen’s contract with guaranteed money until 2024 gives Carolina flexibility. With Dan Morgan as the new GM, there’s speculation about a potential extension for Johnson, given the team’s cap situation.
