The Pittsburgh Steelers finally ticked off one of the biggest tasks on their to-do list. They’ve reached a two-year extension with WR Diontae Johnson, putting an end to his hold-in ahead of the 2022 season.
The #Steelers and WR Diontae Johnson have agreed on a two-year, $36.71 million extension, source says. The sides worked last night and this morning to end his hold-in with a shorter deal than we’ve seen from others that allows him to be a free agent again after the 2024 season.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) August 4, 2022
The extension will average $18.35 million per year, a number significantly lower than the most recent deals in the market. Granted, Johnson is not a Tier-1 receiver like many of the recent names in the news.
Even still, Steelers Nation was concerned about Diontae aiming for a high number that would lead to him leaving Pittsburgh. Recent reports provided insight into what Johnson really wanted, however, which was a shorter deal with guaranteed money.
The extension includes $27M guaranteed, giving Johnson the security he wanted, and can escalate up to $39.5 million with incentives, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Now the Steelers provide more clarity at wide receiver for whoever ends up starting at quarterback in Week 1, and whoever takes overeventually. Wink, wink.
Featured image via Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
