Toledo Coach Jason Candle Believes Steelers a Great Fit for Diontae Johnson

When drafting a player, an organization is hoping to acquire someone who’s not only talented but also a person with great character

That second part is sometimes easier said then done but early indications are the Steelers have accomplished that with 3rd round pick Diontae Johnson.

Here’s a pretty solid endorsement from wide receivers coach Darryl Drake.

“I’ve been doing this for 40 years and he was one of the best interviews and guys I’ve been around in a long time.”

Steelers WR coach Darryl Drake on what impressed him about third-round pick Diontae Johnson. pic.twitter.com/CHBbjMDAEX

— Kevin Gorman (@KGorman_Trib) April 27, 2019

Johnson received more praise this morning from Toledo Head Coach Jason Candle, who spoke to Steelers Now. 

“I believe the Steelers drafted a young man that’s very hungry and eager to learn and get better everyday and someone that will be a great teammate,” said Candle. “His playmaking ability speaks for itself. He arguably had the two best games of his career against Miami, Fla. who have great defensive backs. His productivity and overall growth have improved every year which leads me to believe he has a lot of good football ahead if him.”

This is a 2-play sequence for Johnson vs Miami. Scores the TD with some patented @nateburleson #ToeDragSwag – then gets them the 2-point conversion with a route that just buries the CB pic.twitter.com/Rqn8MuTtgG

— Sam Monson (@PFF_Sam) April 11, 2019

”They’ve put stock and trust in him by drafting him that high and that he gives it back to them and repays their trust. Diontae is a relationship based guy and his position coach and him along with his teammates will have solid relationships. When your level of comfort is there, then I feel your talent has a real chance to surface. Diontae has a whole lot of talent.”

What can you expect from Diontae Johnson?

Please see below. pic.twitter.com/EusoL1Rzte

— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) April 27, 2019

The Steelers have a long history of developing wide receivers and Candle believes Johnson will be another player that’s added to this list. Another reason this has a chance to happen is that a future Hall of a Fame quarterback will be throwing to him.

”That’s huge,” said Candle. “Plus, he’s going to an organization that’s been successful. There’s a lot of reason that their success has been sustained and a lot has to do with the quarterback. Ben has the ability to effect everyone in a positive way especially the wideouts. Diontae is a relationship based guy so it’ll be fun to watch them gel together.”

Last night was a big night for Johnson as well as for Toledo football who’ve put another player in the NFL.

”We’re very proud of Diontae and the other guys who potentially can get their names called today. Diontae is our 5th draft pick in the last 3 years. We’re excited that he’s going to a great organization and we’re excited that the Toledo football brand is starting to spread as well. Toledo has a history of recruiting WPIAL players and have a deep respect for the job that the high school coaches do there. Football is important in Western Pennsylvania and we’re just excited that Toledo football has another connection to that area with Diontae and the Steelers.”