As the 2024 season approaches, Dionne Johnson marks a new chapter for the Black Panthers in Carolina. As a recent transfer from the Pittsburgh Steelers, Johnson has already felt the contract boom in the NFL transfer market. Recently, Minnesota Vikings star outfielder Justin Jefferson signed a four-year contract worth $140 million, which undoubtedly sets a new benchmark for the entire outfielder market.
“It’s really exciting to see everyone getting a big contract,” Johnson admitted in an interview with the Charlotte Observer this week. “But it’s more of a motivation for me to continue working hard. I believe that when I’m ready, opportunities will naturally come. Therefore, I will continue to focus on training instead of worrying too much about contract issues. I must remain calm and humble, do my best to help the team win, so that my value will naturally be reflected. If they feel it’s worth extending my contract, then I will do my best.”
During this offseason, the large contracts of the foreign takers have become the focus of attention. In addition to Jefferson, players such as Michael Petermann Jr., Dwotta Smith, and AJ Brown have also received generous compensation. Johnson understood that in order to stand out in this fiercely competitive alliance, he must continue to demonstrate outstanding performance.
As a third round draft player in 2019, Johnson spent the first five seasons with the Steelers. Among them, 2021 was the peak of his professional career. That year, he received 107 balls, accumulated 1161 yards, and completed 8 touchdowns, which earned him his first professional bowl honor.
After joining the Black Panthers, Johnson will immediately become a key figure in the team’s external receiver group. His arrival added a reliable deep threat to second grade quarterback Bryce Young. Last season, Yang faced many challenges in passing, but Johnson believes he has the ability to help this young quarterback transform in the new season.
When it comes to the upcoming season, Johnson is full of motivation. He said, “Just like a diamond in a raw stone, I firmly believe that I will continue to improve. Wherever I go, I will carry this motivation because sometimes I am still overlooked and not given the respect I deserve. But this will only make me work harder – continue to showcase my strength on the field, proving that I am one of the best outfielders in the league.”