Steelers WR1 Diontae Johnson Has Some Advice For How The Incredibly Quick Calvin Austin III Can Fill The Void

The Pittsburgh Steelers suffered an embarrassing loss to the San Francisco 49ers during Week 1 of the 2023 season. After a loss like that, all teams can do is reflect, regroup, and look ahead. Unfortunately, sometimes the frustrations over poor performances aren't the only things that linger. The Steelers had several players go down with injuries during the 30-7 routing. This included serious injuries to two key starters - Diontae Johnson and Cameron Heyward.

Heyward suffered a groin injury that we now know will need surgery to repair. Johnson pulled his hamstring during the matchup and did not return to the field. Prior to to the injury he had three catches for 48 yards and nearly had a touchdown. That touchdown would have been Johnson's first since Week 17 of 2021.

There is no set date for Johnson's return, but he is still a presence at the Steelers' facility. Johnson spoke with the press about his injury, how he is feeling, and how he sees the Steelers filling the void left by his absence. 

Steelers' Diontae Johnson Speaks About His Injury And The Next Man Up  

Johnson, who has been one of the most durable members of the team, told the media that he is feeling good and sees this injury as just a "little setback." There has not been a decision made yet about whether Johnson will be placed on this injured reserve and he said he is just taking it one day at a time. He admitted that this is out of his control and noted that he is just doing all he can and all he is told to do to help return as soon as possible. Johnson described how the injury happened from his perspective. 

"Trying to make a play, put my foot in the ground and just fell after that. Hammy kind of gave out, but like I said, I just got to move forward and try to get back to my teammates."

Johnson stated that this is an entirely new injury, not something that has been nagging him. He is encouraged by the fact that it is starting to feel better, but said he still cannot run. He said he does feel his strength returning and is now walking better. 

Always a leader on the offense, Johnson said that he plans to continue to try to display that positive attitude now even with such frustrating circumstances. He noted that he is grateful to his teammates and his young son for always helping him stay positive. Despite feeling like he is being held back from what he hoped to accomplish this season, Johnson said he will do everything he can to support and help his team. 

"I can't just be in a bad mood. Because that's not going to do nothing about the situation. All I can do is just keep being a leader for my group, coming in with positive energy, with a smile on my face, and just keep attacking this rehab."

Johnson said that part of his plan to help his team is by supporting the wide receivers who will see a change in their role or playing time due to his injury. Part of that support will come just from his presence around the team and the mentorship he will provide to the younger players. 

As it stands right now, it seems likely that veteran Allen Robinson II, who is new to the Steelers in 2023, will remain in the slot. Second-year receiver George Pickens will move up and take Johnson's starting role. This will give him a chance to show off his incredible catching skills in a different way. The player who will likely see the biggest change in their playing time is Calvin Austin III. Austin was set to play primarily on punt returns, and will likely now move up the depth chart. 

How the Steelers will rotate and use them all remains to be seen. Johnson was asked about a comment that was made by Austin stating that he looks up to Johnson and sees him as the leader of their group. Johnson was asked about the advice he would give to Austin as he faces this expanded role.  

"Just go in there and be yourself. Don't try to do too much, don't try to change your game just 'cause your role is going to be bigger this week. I'm always there for Calvin. He's a pro. All I can do is keep giving him love, things to get better at. Whatever he feels he needs to get better at, I can just be that lending hand for him. He's just going to continue to get better. I'm happy for him, just excited to see what he's going to do on Monday."

Johnson was asked if he thinks that Austin is ready for that bigger role in Week 2 as the Steelers face their divisional rival the Cleveland Browns in Pittsburgh. He acknowledged it is early for Austin to have to step up into such a big role, but added that he is a smart player and knows what he is doing. Johnson said he will continue to be that support for Austin and the other receivers. 

"Just trying to be around the facility. Not trying to stay away from the facility just because I'm injured. Bring that energy, just be out there, my presence out there means a lot to those guys. I just want to continue to be around the team and keep my spirits up."

The Steelers are going to have to get creative to fill the void left by Johnson and Heyward. But like Head Coach Mike Tomlin always says, it's time for the next man up - all of these players are professional and now someone new is getting an opportunity.