Chargers lost Diontae Johnson to Texans on unbelievable technicality

Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
In this story:

There was some confusion on the waiver wire this week as the Los Angeles Chargers missed out after putting in a claim on former Baltimore Ravens wideout Diontae Johnson

Turns out the Chargers missed Johnson by the smallest of little details in the waiver wire order. 

According to The Athletic’s Daniel Popper, since the Chargers and Texans were both 9-6, the tiebreaker to get awarded Johnson came down to opponent strength of schedule. ESPN’s Field Yates confirmed this. 

Meaning this, via Popper: 

  • HOU SOS: .4911 (110-114 cumulative record) 
  • LAC SOS: .5089 (114-110 cumulative record)

The Texans landed Johnson because they technically have a lower winning percentage in this area. 

This one hurts. Controversy around Johnson’s exit in Baltimore or not, it’s clear the Chargers were ready to get Justin Herbert some late-season help. They were the only other team to put in a claim and take that risk. Instead, a Texans team that just lost Tank Dell gets him and the Chargers are left hoping that DJ Chark can actually break onto the field. 

If nothing else, at least, this once again shows the Chargers fully understand wideout is a major need going into next season.

Enjoy free coverage of the Chargers from Los Angeles Chargers on SI

More Los Angeles Chargers News:

Chargers were only other team to place waiver claim on huge name

How Chargers can clinch playoff berth in Week 17

Chargers 2025 NFL draft order update entering Week 17

Chargers' AFC playoff standings update entering Week 17

Jim Harbaugh-Justin Herbert Chargers should scare wild card opponents


Published
Chris Roling
CHRIS ROLING