Steelers Rumors: Diontae Johnson 'Unhappy' with Contract Situation Amid OTA Absence

Diontae Johnson is not participating in the team activities because of his contract situation, according to Mark Kaboly of the Athletic.

"Johnson is unhappy with his current contract situation and trying to send a message through his lack of attendance. He is entering the final year of his rookie contract, and he knows if an extension isn’t agreed upon by the Sept. 11 opener, he will likely play the season without any security of a long-term deal as he heads into free agency."

The leverage appears to be in the hands of the Steelers at the moment.

"Johnson doesn’t want that, and what little leverage he has is sitting out OTAs. It’s an empty threat because Johnson doesn’t have much recourse in the matter. How the Steelers do business is they will offer Johnson what they believe is his market value, and there won’t be much wiggle room."

After the team parted ways with Antonio Brown, Johnson has been a workhorse for the team.

Johnson was the 66th overall selection in the draft. He has averaged 135 per season for the past three years.

Johnson had a big year last year, finishing with 1,161 yards and eight touchdown catches. He finished fifth in catches and second in targets.

Chase Claypool said that Diontae is grinding no matter where he is.

I know a lot of people are looking into it, but I am not looking into it too much because he is going to come ball out.

The final year of Johnson's contract is approaching. If the two sides don't agree to a long-term deal, the Steelers could place the franchise tag on Johnson.

Johnson has sat out three of the six practices. The last three will be on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of next week.

There will be a three-day mandatory mini camp in Pittsburgh starting June 7.