Whoever prevails in the competition to take over as the Pittsburgh Steelers’ next starter will have a dependable receiver to target despite the lack of clarity at quarterback.
Wide receiver Diontae Johnson, in his fourth season, has signed an extension with the Steelers, the team announced. This season will mark the start of the new three-year contract, which is reportedly worth $39.5 million.
Johnson will make almost $13.1 million a year on average.
Ben Roethlisberger’s final season as quarterback led the deteriorating Steelers to a postseason appearance thanks in part to Johnson’s performance the previous year.
In his first campaign, he was able to record over 1,000 receiving yards and over 100 catches.
The Toledo product was selected for his first Pro Bowl as a result.
JuJu Smith-Schuster’s departure as a receiver may present Johnson with even more pass-catching opportunities.
Who exactly will be throwing to him, though, is still up for debate.
Three quarterbacks compete to replace “Big Ben,” as he is known in western Pennsylvania, as they report to training camp.
Mason Rudolph, who took over the Steelers’ offence in 2019 when Ben Roethlisberger was sidelined early in the season due to an injury, will face up against former starter Mitch Trubisky of the Chicago Bears.
Head coach Mike Tomlin’s decision has become more difficult with the addition of Kenny Pickett, a rookie quarterback and product of the University of Pittsburgh.
