Steelers sign WR Javon McKinley, waive DE Tyree Johnson

The Pittsburgh Steelers currently do not have star wide receiver Diontae Johnson as a full participant for summer practices as he continues his "hold in" amid his desire for a long-term contract extension while in the final year of his rookie deal. 

Pittsburgh added a different option at the position on the opening day of August. 

Per Teresa Varley of the Steelers' website, Pittsburgh has signed wide receiver Javon McKinley. In a corresponding roster move, the Steelers waived defensive end Tyree Johnson.

As Josh Alper noted for Pro Football Talk, McKinley is a product of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and went undrafted last year. He ultimately signed with the Detroit Lions but spent the majority of the 2021 season on the team's practice squad. Detroit released McKinley after the NFL Draft this spring. 

The Steelers aren't hurting as it pertains to pass-catchers even with Johnson managing his workload until further notice. Along with fellow receiver Chase Claypool and tight end Pat Freiermuth, Pittsburgh also drafted receivers George Pickens and Calvin Austin III this spring, and both are expected to immediately contribute to the offense. Claypool recently banged up his shoulder, but it's believed that's not a serious setback.