Mike Tomlin reveals what the Panthers need to know about new-look WR Diontae Johnson

When the Carolina Panthers landed wide receiver Diontae Johnson in a trade, the team knew it brought in a top receiver.  Now Johnson's former coach, Mike Tomlin, the coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, revealed exactly what the Panthers got in landing the former 1,000-yard pass catcher.  "You're getting an awesome route runner, man," Tomlin said. […]

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Jan 15, 2024; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Buffalo Bills cornerback Cam Lewis (39) attempts to tackle Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) in the second half in the second half in a 2024 AFC wild card game at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Image via Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

When the Carolina Panthers landed wide receiver Diontae Johnson in a trade, the team knew it brought in a top receiver. 

Now Johnson's former coach, Mike Tomlin, the coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, revealed exactly what the Panthers got in landing the former 1,000-yard pass catcher. 

"You're getting an awesome route runner, man," Tomlin said. "A guy that can create separation at the top of routes. A guy that's tough to stay with, he can win in non-vertical route running and vertical route running. So you get a guy with a complete skill set in that regard, and I just think he's going to be a big asset to them. He wants the football, but I think they all do."

The Panthers added Johnson because Bryce Young didn't have anyone to throw to during his rookie season. 

Now Young has a certified No. 1 option with the speedy Johnson. 

But the Panthers aren't stopping at Johnson. Carolina is looking to add another wide receiver through the NFL Draft. One option is Xavier Legette out of the University of South Carolina. 

Still, the Panthers may have gotten a steal in landing Johnson in an early window 2024 NFL free agency trade.