The Dallas Cowboys’ 44-19 blowout loss to the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, September 15, has sparked concern among both fans and media.
With franchise quarterback Dak Prescott under scrutiny, many believe he needs more offensive support if the Cowboys hope to reach the Super Bowl. One NFL analyst is suggesting the team bring in a wide receiver from the Carolina Panthers to bolster Prescott’s options.
Could Diontae Johnson Be the Answer for the Cowboys?
NFL writer Zach Pressnell, in a September 17 article for Fansided, argues that Carolina Panthers wide receiver Diontae Johnson “could be the guy” to provide the offensive boost Dallas needs. Pressnell points out that Prescott is currently relying heavily on CeeDee Lamb, with limited help from the rest of the offense.
“The Cowboys front office should make a splash in the trade market,” Pressnell stated, adding that several teams might be willing to trade before the deadline.
While veteran Adam Thielen is another potential target, Pressnell specifically believes Johnson would be a better fit for Dallas. With Johnson set to become a free agent next offseason, he could be a valuable trade asset for Carolina, and Dallas has extra draft picks they could use to make a deal happen.
Johnson, who joined the Panthers this past offseason, posted impressive numbers in 2021, recording 107 catches for 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns. Pressnell believes that in Dallas, Johnson could thrive as Prescott’s No. 2 receiver.
“If Dallas wants to be a serious Super Bowl contender, they need another weapon,” Pressnell asserted. “Diontae Johnson could be that guy.”
Other Teams Interested in Johnson
Not everyone thinks Johnson will land in Dallas. In a September 18 article for Bleacher Report, Kristopher Knox listed the Los Angeles Rams and New England Patriots as possible destinations for the wideout.
Knox noted that Johnson, who recorded 51 receptions for 717 yards and five touchdowns as the Pittsburgh Steelers’ No. 2 receiver last year, could fill gaps for receiver-needy teams. He mentioned that both the Rams, dealing with injuries to key receivers like Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, and the Patriots, who lack depth at the position, could pursue Johnson.
A trade for Johnson could help solve some of the “question marks” surrounding Prescott’s supporting cast in Dallas, making it a move worth considering.