LOOK: Diontae Johnson sends cryptic message as he seeks new contract with Steelers

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson was not in attendance for the first three days of voluntary OTA’s, and with speculation about him being unhappy with his current contract situation, it’s not likely he shows up for any this offseason. He took to social media Friday night to seemingly air a subtle grievance about the situation.

😴 Ain say nun… LOL

— Diontae Johnson (@Juiceup__3) May 28, 2022

In other words, Johnson wants to keep his mouth closed on the situation for now.

Johnson’s production is key for the Steelers in the post-Roethlisberger era, but sitting out gives him little leverage in terms of his contract situation. While his message is certainly being sent, Johnson is entering the final season of his rookie contract. The deadline for an extension is Sept. 11, and Johnson wants to have his new contract before that date.

Teammate and fellow wide receiver Chase Claypool addressed the matter, noting that Johnson’s absence shouldn’t be blown out of proportion.

“I know Diontae is grinding no matter where he is,” Claypool said. “I know a lot of people are looking into it, but I am not looking into it too much because he is perfecting his craft, and he is going to come ball out … I don’t think it is a big deal, but I know people will make it a big deal because people need clicks and stuff. It is not a big deal. We are going to get work in during the offseason.”

Together, Claypool and Johnson combined for 166 receptions for 2,021 yards and 10 touchdowns last season as the top two targets for Ben Roethlisberger in his final season with the organization. Johnson, who led the team in receiving yards with 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns by himself.

With three full seasons in Pittsburgh under his belt, Johnson has compiled over 250 receptions, 2,700 yards and 20 touchdowns as the senior-most receiver on the Steelers roster following the departure of JuJu Smith-Schuster to the Kansas City Chiefs. To him, these credentials alone warrant a new contract, but it seems the Steelers are playing a waiting game with the former Toledo star.