Fri May 30 22:10:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Diontae Johnson Skips Browns OTAs, Raising Eyebrows in Cleveland**

CLEVELAND – Wide receiver Diontae Johnson is already stirring controversy with his new team, the Cleveland Browns. The former Pittsburgh Steelers standout was absent from the start of the Browns’ Organized Team Activities (OTAs), according to Cleveland.com’s Mary Kay Cabot.

This absence follows a tumultuous 2024 season for Johnson, who played for both the Carolina Panthers and the Baltimore Ravens. After being traded to Carolina from Pittsburgh in a deal that sent defensive back Donte Jackson to the Steelers, Johnson’s stint with the Panthers proved largely unsuccessful. He was then traded to Baltimore in October, before being suspended in December for conduct detrimental to the team and subsequently released later that month.

While OTAs are voluntary, Johnson’s absence is noteworthy considering his need to prove himself in Cleveland. The Browns have depth issues at wide receiver, presenting Johnson with an opportunity to earn a significant role. However, he must demonstrate commitment and effort to secure a roster spot. This marks the second time in as many season the receiver has made headlines for being absent from optional training activites.

Johnson enjoyed a successful start to his career in Pittsburgh, earning second-team All-Pro honors in 2019. He hopes to recapture that form in Cleveland.

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