The Cleveland Browns enter the 2025 NFL Draft with a need at wide receiver that one draft pick won't fix. Even if they take Travis Hunter, the Browns will need more pieces in the receiving corps to make the group whole.
One free agent they could take a swing at is former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson. The former All-Pro had a horrendous contract year in 2024. He was traded from the Steelers to the Carolina Panthers last March. Carolina then traded him to the Baltimore Ravens before the trade deadline. However, after a disagreement due to playing time, the Ravens released Johnson. He then signed with the Texans, who also released him shortly after.
While Johnson had one of the worst ore-free agency years you could have, the talent with him has been made evident. From 2019-23, he was the Steelers' top receiver. He caught 391 passes and 28 touchdowns, and also had a punt return touchdown as a rookie which was a big reason why he was a Second-Team All-Pro selection in 2019.
Considering everything that took place last season, Johnson won't be a costly addition, and the risk-reward factor is very real. Worst case scenario, the Browns cut ties with Johnson and cut their losses. Best case scenario, he recaptures some of the Pro Bowl play he put on the field in recent years and can be a good addition to the offense.
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