In recent weeks, Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson's attitude and effort on the field have come under scrutiny. Despite a solid start after recovering from an early hamstring injury, Johnson's frustration and disappointment have overshadowed his performance in the final weeks of November.

On Sunday, Johnson had a decent game against the Cincinnati Bengals, catching four passes for 50 yards, including an impressive 39-yard grab. However, it was a play in which he wasn't supposed to be involved that has people talking. This play occurred just after Johnson had a touchdown catch negated by the officials.

Instead of showing effort on his blocking assignment, Johnson displayed a lack of engagement and failed to pay attention to the play as running back Jaylen Warren fumbled. Cornerback DJ Turner II, the player assigned to Johnson, recovered the fumble and returned it 28 yards, with Connor Heyward making a potential touchdown-saving tackle.

Former Steelers cornerback Ike Taylor weighed in on Johnson's overall attitude and effort, particularly in recent weeks. Taylor, speaking on the Bleav in Steelers podcast, expressed his disappointment, saying, "Give me all that enthusiasm when he was trying to get that contract." Johnson signed a two-year, $36.71 million contract extension in 2022 after a successful 2021 season.

While Taylor acknowledged that dropped touchdowns happen, he emphasized that great players finish plays and avoid putting themselves in situations where officials have to make judgment calls. He refrained from questioning Johnson's effort but emphasized the importance of self-reflection and improvement.

One of the areas where Johnson has received criticism is his inconsistent blocking. Comparisons have been drawn to fellow wide receiver George Pickens, who is lauded for his willingness to contribute even when he's not the main target. Taylor commended Pickens for his efforts, stating, "When you're willing to do something that has nothing to do with you but for the sake of the team, that's what we look at."

Johnson currently ranks second on the Steelers in receiving yards with 385 on the season. He has caught 30 passes and scored one touchdown. It's worth noting that Johnson missed four games due to injury earlier in the season. In his first three games back, he had impressive performances with 5 receptions for 79 yards, 8 receptions for 85 yards, and 7 receptions for 90 yards, along with his long-awaited touchdown.

However, Johnson's production dipped in the following weeks, as he caught only three passes for 33 yards on 12 targets. During this period, reports emerged of a confrontation between Johnson and teammate Minkah Fitzpatrick. The incident raises questions about team dynamics and chemistry, further fueling the discussion surrounding Johnson's attitude and effort.

As the season progresses, it is clear that Johnson's attitude and effort will be closely monitored. Fans and analysts alike will be looking to see if he can regain the enthusiasm and dedication he displayed before signing his contract extension. The Steelers, hoping to make a playoff push, will need Johnson to be at his best if they want to succeed.