The Baltimore Ravens have officially suspended wide receiver Diontae Johnson for one game due to conduct detrimental to the team. The decision comes after Johnson reportedly refused to enter Sunday’s game against the Philadelphia Eagles, despite being suited up and available. Ravens General Manager Eric DeCosta called the move a “difficult decision” in a statement released Wednesday.
Diontae Johnson to Miss Key Game Against Giants
Johnson will sit out the Ravens’ December 15 matchup against the New York Giants, with Baltimore currently on a bye week. The incident adds clarity to Johnson’s mysterious absence during the team’s 24-19 loss to the Eagles. Despite starting receiver Rashod Bateman exiting the game in the second half due to a knee injury, Johnson remained on the sideline, visible near a heater but never taking the field.
Johnson’s Struggles Since Joining the Ravens
Since being acquired from the Carolina Panthers on October 29, Johnson’s impact has been minimal. He has played only 39 snaps and recorded a single catch for six yards. This is a steep drop from his performance earlier in the season with Carolina, where he led the team with 30 receptions, 357 receiving yards, and three touchdowns in seven games.
Johnson’s decreased production in Baltimore could hurt his prospects as he approaches free agency in the offseason. His suspension now raises further questions about his long-term future with the team.
What’s Next for Diontae Johnson?
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh has remained noncommittal on whether Johnson will remain with the team beyond this season. The trade that brought Johnson to Baltimore was seen as a low-risk move. The Ravens gave up a fifth-round pick in exchange for Johnson and a sixth-round pick, with the Panthers covering most of his salary. Baltimore is only paying $625,000 of his remaining contract.
However, if the Ravens choose to cut Johnson, they would lose the chance to secure a compensatory pick in the 2026 NFL Draft if he signs elsewhere.
Ravens’ Receiving Corps and Playoff Push
Baltimore’s wide receiver group, led by Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, and Nelson Agholor, has helped the team rank third in the NFL in passing offense, averaging 243.3 yards per game. With the postseason approaching, the Ravens are focused on maximizing their offensive efficiency.
Quarterback Lamar Jackson voiced his support for Johnson after Sunday’s game, emphasizing his potential value to the team.
“We want him out there,” Jackson said. “He’s a great receiver. We didn’t bring him in from the Panthers for no reason.”
Diontae Johnson’s Career Overview
Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Johnson has built an impressive resume with 422 catches, 4,726 yards, and 28 touchdowns during his career with the Steelers, Panthers, and Ravens. However, his latest suspension could be a turning point as both he and the Ravens navigate their future together.(*)
Source: Espn.com
