Steelers WR Diontae Johnson aggravated by ‘regular fan’ criticism of offensive line

Like all of his Steelers teammates, Diontae Johnson is frustrated with the way things have gone for the team this season. He’s not one to beat around the bush, and it was no different in his availability with the media today.

One of the low points is the lack of production with the Steelers ground game — an issue that’s been hampering the team for years now.

“Obviously, we haven’t been running the ball like we want to,” said Johnson. “But, at times, we do run the ball, and we show we can run the ball. It’s not like the o-line not tryin’ to do their job.

“I be gettin’ tired of people talkin’ about the line. If it’s so easy — from a person speaking that’s not on the team that’s a regular fan — why don’t you come out here and do it for us? Show me, you feel me, that you can do it better than me.”

Consistently ranked in the bottom of the NFL all season, Pittsburgh’s offensive line has been painful to watch. There have been a few games where running back Najee Harris was able to get something going, but, for the most part, it’s been a struggle.

Adrian Klemm was relieved of his duties as offensive line coordinator today. When offered a similar position at the University of Oregon last week, the plan was for Klemm to stay on with the Steelers through the end of the season. But given the state of the unit, there’s no harm in dismissing him earlier than planned.