San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed on Wednesday that dual-threat offensive weapon and All-Pro selection Deebo Samuel won't practice in the early days of training camp as Samuel continues to work on landing a long-term deal while in the final year of his rookie contract.
It appears a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers may follow in Samuel's footsteps.
Steelers star receiver Diontae Johnson finished last season with team highs of 107 receptions, 1,161 receiving yards and eight touchdown catches but still hasn't put pen to paper on a new agreement ahead of possibly playing on the final year of his rookie contract. Johnson reported for training camp on time this week but suggested on Wednesday his agent may have advised him against participating in team drills at the moment.
"We'll see," Johnson responded when asked about practicing, per Jonathan Heitritter of Steelers Depot.
"I'm taking it a day at a time," Johnson continued during his comments. "I can't be worried about the wrong stuff because if I worry about that, it's going to get in the way of my business on the field. I can only control what I can control and keep praying I get something done. If I don't, I'll keep working."
Last summer, Pittsburgh All-Pro pass-rusher T.J. Watt embraced a so-called "hold in" and completed workouts away from teammates until he ultimately signed a lucrative extension shortly before the start of the regular season. According to Noah Strackbein of FanNation's All Steelers, Johnson vowed on Wednesday he will handle his particular situation "as I handle mine."
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