The best thing for an NFL wide receiver who wants to be elite is to build a positive relationship with the guy who is going to be throwing him the football. In 2021, Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson had a career year with Ben Roethlisberger throwing him the football.
Johnson took a step back in 2022 when Kenny Pickett took over as a rookie. But this isn’t something Johnson is worried about and is heading into the season with tons of confidence in Pickett and confidence in himself.
Johnson spoke to Bo Marchionte from college2pro and he had nothing but good things to say about Pickett and his potential.
“Then there is the experience, but at the same time, [Pickett] is just as smart. So, the arm might not be like Ben, but he got the heart. He’s a good football player. He’s never going to give up. He is always going to try to be the best at throwing or reading. Whatever it is, he will work his ass off to be the best at it.”
High praise, indeed. Johnson also set some lofty goals for himself for the upcoming season.
“Hundred catches,” Johnson said. “Over a thousand yards. All-Pro. Pro Bowl. Championship. I’m humble. I don’t want to come off cocky or nothing like that. I’m humble. I just want to work and play football. Make plays. When I say that stuff, I say it in the humblest way. I know how it is because people can take it the wrong way. It’s a blessing. A lot of people don’t get that opportunity and I just want to continue that.”
