Reports: Steelers deal WR Diontae Johnson to Panthers

Field Level Media|published: Tue 12th March, 19:35 2024

Jan 15, 2024; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) runs the ball in the second half against the Buffalo Bills in a 2024 AFC wild card game at Highmark Stadium. credits: Kirby Leei-USA TODAY Sports

The Carolina Panthers acquired Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson on Tuesday in exchange for cornerback Donte Jackson, multiple reports said.

The teams are also swapping late picks, with Carolina sending its sixth-rounder to Pittsburgh but receiving a seventh-rounder.

Johnson, 27, has started 67 of his 77 career games over five NFL seasons in Pittsburgh. In that time he has made 391 receptions for 4,363 yards and 25 touchdowns.

Johnson's best season came in 2021, when he racked up 107 catches, 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns and earned a Pro Bowl selection.

He joins a Panthers team whose top target was 33-year-old slot receiver Adam Thielen, who is coming off a 1,000-yard year. The Panthers are entering Year 2 of quarterback Bryce Young's career, with Dave Canales taking over as head coach.

Jackson, 28, spent his first six NFL campaigns in Carolina. He started 16 games last season, which was his first without at least one interception. He has 14 career interceptions and 46 pass breakups in 80 games (76 starts).

—Field Level Media