Steelers WR Diontae Johnson played most of 2019 injured, had offseason surgery

In a conference call with Pittsburgh media on Wednesday, Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson admitted he played the majority of his 2020 rookie season with a lingering groin injury.

In addition to the groin injury which plagued him most of his rookie season, Johnson had surgery for a sports hernia following the 2019 campaign.

With only four receptions for 42 yards in his first two games, it means the remaining 2019 statistics for Johnson of 59 catches for 630 yards and five touchdowns all came after the injury. Additionally, his 85-yard punt return for a touchdown in Week 14 against the Arizona Cardinals was also during the time in which he was dealing with the groin injury.

Johnston admitted he had yet to be cleared from doctors completely, but hopes to get the greenlight in the next several days. Additionally, he’s hoping to be able to do some training and workouts with Steelers’ quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.

With Johnson turning in a fantastic rookie year in which he started 13 games and appeared in all 16, it will be great for Steelers’ fans to see what a healthy Diontae Johnson brings to the team. Along with improved quarterback play as Ben Roethlisberger continues his comeback after 2019 season-ending elbow surgery, it is exciting to think about what these two can accomplish together when healthy.

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