The Steelers have started discussions with wide receiver Diontae Johnson about a new contract, but that doesn't mean they will sign him before the start of the regular season — or even before free agency in 2023.
General manager Omar Khan said at a Tuesday news conference at Saint Vincent College the Steelers would like to sign Johnson and "hope he's going to be a Steeler for a long time." However, according to a team source, the sides are so far apart from what Johnson is seeking and what the Steelers are willing to spend, the plausibility of getting a deal done before the Sept. 11 season opener in Cincinnati is slim.
That could create a potential problem for the Steelers in general and Johnson in particular. He has been taking part in individual drills but has not participated in team sessions since the start of training camp, hoping his "hold-in" will result in a new contract like it did for outside linebacker T.J. Watt last year.
