NFL insider claims Ravens won't cut Diontae Johnson as Steelers loom as big threat
ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler uncovered a strategic dilemma facing the Baltimore Ravens on Friday, revolving around wide receiver Diontae Johnson's potential release.
The story emerged following Johnson's controversial suspension for refusing to enter the game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Dec. 1.
The report appeared on ESPN, detailing the team's internal deliberations and strategic considerations. Diontae Johnson's actions have created significant tension within the Ravens organization.
"Johnson's immediate future in Baltimore looks tenuous at best. This week, the Ravens showed interest in receiver Josh Reynolds, who was claimed by Jacksonville after Denver released him. Clearly, the Ravens are looking for alternatives.
"Something to keep in mind if Baltimore cuts Johnson: It plays Pittsburgh – Johnson's old team – in Week 16. Whether the Steelers would want him back is unclear, but the way some people around the league see it: The threat of him sharing Ravens' offensive intel with Pittsburgh could make Baltimore hold on to him," said Fowler.
A team source described to ESPN Johnson's game refusal as a "major letdown." Despite the controversy, the receiver's demeanor before the Ravens' bye week was reportedly "as good as could be expected."
Diontae Johnson's future ahead
Diontae Johnson's statistical profile adds complexity to the situation. He was a Pro Bowl receiver in 2021, with 107 catches for 1,161 yards that season. Since joining the Ravens on Oct. 29, he has managed just one reception for six yards across four games.
The Ravens' hesitation stems from a critical strategic concern. Johnson spent his first five NFL seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The rivalry is particularly intense, with Pittsburgh winning eight of the past nine meetings between the teams.
General manager Eric DeCosta took decisive action, suspending Johnson for one game for "conduct detrimental to the team." The suspension will sideline him for the Dec. 15 game against the New York Giants.
Johnson's career stats remain impressive: 422 career catches for 4,726 yards and 28 touchdowns. He led the Carolina Panthers with 30 catches for 357 yards in seven games before being traded to Baltimore.
The potential playoff implications add another layer of intrigue. If the season ended today, Baltimore and Pittsburgh would meet in the Wild Card Round. The prospect of Johnson potentially sharing offensive secrets creates a high-stakes scenario that could dramatically impact divisional dynamics.