The Kansas City Chiefs reportedly attempted to make a move for a star wide receiver to bolster their offense, but to no avail.
On Tuesday, the Pittsburgh Steelers completed a blockbuster trade by dealing star wideout Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for cornerback Donte Jackson. The Steelers are also getting a 2024 sixth-round pick in the trade, while Carolina is getting a 2024 seventh-round pick.
Speaking on “NFL Total Access” after the trade, NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo reported that the Chiefs also spoke to the Steelers about a Johnson trade. According to Garafolo, however, the Steelers preferred not to trade Johnson inside the conference, especially a top contender like Kansas City.
Johnson was a key part of the Steelers’ offense since 2020, recording four straight seasons of 50-plus catches and over 700 receiving yards. He had his best season in 2021, tallying 107 receptions for 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns.
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But with George Pickens breaking out as the Steelers’ top wideout in 2023, the club ultimately decided that Johnson was expendable. And so, the 27-year-old heads to a Carolina team that fielded football’s worst record in 2023 (2-15) despite the arrival of first overall pick Bryce Young.
The Chiefs released Marques Valdes-Scantling in a cap-saving move, and Super Bowl 58 hero Mecole Hardman is a free agent. With most top free agent WRs off the market, it’ll be interesting to see how Andy Reid and company go about restocking the position for Patrick Mahomes.
Also Read: REPORT: Russell Wilson “Was Open To” Joining Two Other AFC Teams If He Didn’t Land With Steelers
