Diontae Johnson’s time in Baltimore is over before it ever really began. The Ravens made a not-so-surprising roster move ahead of their Week 16 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, waiving former Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson.
The move was anticipated after the Ravens suspended Johnson for a game after refusing to enter their Week 13 matchup with the Philadelphia Eagles. He was also excused from practice this week.
Johnson, who signed with the Ravens earlier this season after his tenure with the Steelers and Carolina Panthers, had struggled to find his footing in Baltimore’s offensive system. With limited snaps and minimal production, his presence on the roster was more about depth and strategy than on-field contributions. However, his release just days before facing his former team suggests the Ravens prioritized flexibility in their roster as they gear up for a playoff push.
The timing of Johnson’s release adds intrigue to an already intense rivalry. The Ravens and Steelers are locked in a battle for playoff positioning, and the outcome of this game could have significant implications for the postseason.
Though Johnson was ineffective for Baltimore, this move means Pittsburgh won’t have to face their former wideout in a Ravens jersey.
Should he clear waivers, Johnson will be a free agent just in time to help a team with their postseason ride.
We have waived WR Diontae Johnson. We have activated DB Desmond King and WR Anthony Miller from the Practice Squad for tomorrow’s game.
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) December 20, 2024
