The Baltimore Ravens’ handling of wide receiver Diontae Johnson is raising eyebrows after his absence from Sunday’s loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Despite being acquired before the trade deadline, Johnson didn’t see any snaps, even after Rashod Bateman exited the game with an injury. Head coach John Harbaugh’s vague responses to questions about the situation have only fueled speculation about Johnson’s future with the team.
A Mysterious Absence
When asked about Johnson’s lack of involvement after the game, Harbaugh gave what many perceived as a non-answer. By Monday, his comments were equally ambiguous, stating, “I need more time with that one. We have to explore a couple of situations.” For a team that invested in acquiring Johnson, his complete absence from the lineup, particularly in the wake of Bateman’s injury, is puzzling.
A History of Locker Room Issues
Johnson’s past may offer some clues. Known for locker room challenges during his stints with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Carolina Panthers, Johnson was a polarizing figure before landing in Baltimore. His reputation likely contributed to the Ravens acquiring him at a bargain price before the trade deadline, as there were reportedly few teams willing to take a chance on him.
Implications for Baltimore
The timing of these developments is critical. The Ravens are heading into their bye week, providing an opportunity to reassess Johnson’s role and his fit within the team. With Bateman potentially sidelined due to injury, Johnson’s skill set could be valuable—if the off-field issues can be managed.
However, Johnson’s continued exclusion raises questions about what’s happening behind the scenes. Is it a matter of playbook familiarity, or are his off-field issues already surfacing in Baltimore? Harbaugh’s comments suggest the team may still be evaluating his future with the organization, and a decision could come during the bye week.
What’s Next for Diontae Johnson and the Ravens?
The Ravens are in a precarious position. As contenders in the AFC, they need all hands on deck to solidify their playoff push. Johnson’s talent is undeniable, but the team must weigh that against the potential for disruption in the locker room.
If Baltimore decides to move on from Johnson, it would signal that the risks of keeping him outweigh his potential contributions on the field. On the other hand, if they choose to integrate him into the offense, they must ensure that any underlying issues are addressed to prevent further distractions.
As the Ravens enter their bye week, all eyes will be on Baltimore to see how they handle this intriguing situation. Will Johnson finally get his opportunity to make an impact, or will his time with the Ravens end as abruptly as it began? The next week could provide critical answers.