PITTSBURGH — Steelers standout wide receiver Diontae Johnson made a big catch on the team’s first offensive play of the second half and went down, grabbing his hamstring. The injury did not look good, as Johnson came out of the game with the help of trainers. The injury appeared to be to his right hamstring. The trainers took his helmet away after coming out of the injury blue medical tent. He has been ruled out for the rest of the game.
Johnson’s had a sizable impact on the game, racking up 48 yards on three receptions. He went to the locker without his helmet, a sign that his day was likely over following the injury. As he was tackled from behind, Johnson’s leg appeared to have overextended, causing a potential hamstring injury. The Steelers offense has had a tough first half, and Johnson was targeted on an interception by Kenny Pickett on a corner route. His absence will make it harder for the Steelers offense to get going.
In his place, George Pickens, Allen Robinson II, and Calvin Austin II will see more plays. Jaylen Warren could also be a benefactor, seeing the Steelers run more two running back sets without one of their best wide receivers on the field. The passing offense has struggled to find footing against a suffocating 49ers defense. With his injury, losing Diontae Johnson is a tough blow for the Steelers offense to replace.