Diontae Johnson Didn't Realize Dave Canales Was Panthers' HC When They First Met

After being acquired by the Carolina Panthers in a trade with the Pittsburgh Steelers earlier this offseason, wide receiver Diontae Johnson is still getting used to his new surroundings.

Johnson revealed to reporters on Tuesday that he didn't realize that Dave Canales was the Panthers' head coach when they had dinner together for the first time. When he was informed afterward that Canales would be calling the shots during the 2024 season, Johnson said he was "so surprised."

Canales was a member of the Seattle Seahawks coaching staff since 2010 before becoming offensive coordinator of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the 2023 season. The Panthers hired him as their head coach in January, giving him the task of turning around a team that finished with a 2-15 record in 2023.

Johnson added that he didn't expect Canales to be the head coach "in part because of his energy."

The 42-year-old will need to remain positive if he hopes to lead the Panthers to success in 2024.