Dalton's Arrival: Fantasy Upgrade for Diontae Johnson?
The Pittsburgh Steelers' acquisition of veteran tight end, Dalton Schultz, has sent shockwaves through the fantasy football community. With the departure of Pat Freiermuth, many are wondering how this move impacts Diontae Johnson's fantasy value.
While the arrival of a new receiving threat always brings questions about target share, there are several reasons to believe that Schultz's presence could actually enhance Johnson's fantasy prospects.
Freiermuth's Absence:
The Steelers' tight end room is currently filled with uncertainty. Pat Freiermuth, the team's leading receiving tight end, has exited for the New England Patriots, leaving a significant void in the offense. This void opens up valuable targets, which could directly benefit both Johnson and Schultz.
Expanding the Playbook:
Dalton Schultz is a known commodity, boasting a strong track record of production with the Dallas Cowboys. His reliable hands and ability to win contested catches make him a valuable asset in the red zone. This opens up the playbook for the Steelers, creating more opportunities for all receivers, including Johnson.
Creating Mismatches:
Schultz's size and physicality provide a unique dimension to the Steelers' offense. This will force defenses to respect his presence in the middle of the field, opening up space for Johnson to exploit matchups on the outside. The potential for more "one-on-one" opportunities could be a significant boon for Johnson's production.
The Kenny Pickett Factor:
The Steelers' quarterback, Kenny Pickett, is entering his second season, with a year of experience under his belt. He has shown a willingness to target Johnson, and the addition of Schultz could further facilitate Pickett's growth and confidence. With a more diverse passing attack, Pickett may feel more comfortable relying on Johnson in key moments.
The Overall Outlook:
While the arrival of Dalton Schultz might initially seem like a threat to Diontae Johnson's fantasy value, the overall impact could be positive. The Steelers are gaining a reliable target in Schultz, which will only help to elevate the entire offense, including Johnson. With more targets available, the potential for Johnson to produce strong fantasy numbers remains high.
It's important to note:
- The success of this dynamic will ultimately depend on the implementation of the Steelers' offensive scheme.
- The emergence of other young receivers like George Pickens could also impact Johnson's target share.
Overall, the arrival of Dalton Schultz is not a cause for concern for Diontae Johnson owners. In fact, it may even be seen as a positive development that could lead to increased production and fantasy value for the talented wide receiver.
