The Baltimore Ravens' experiment with wide receiver Diontae Johnson has come to an abrupt end. The team waived Johnson on Friday, just weeks after acquiring him from the Carolina Panthers in a trade aimed at bolstering their offense.
Johnson's time in Baltimore proved disappointing from the outset. He managed only one reception for six yards in his Ravens debut, and that would be his sole contribution to the team's receiving statistics. Earlier this month, Johnson was suspended by the team for reportedly refusing to play against the Philadelphia Eagles. He was also excused from practice earlier this week, signaling the imminent end of his tenure with the team.
The trade, initially intended to provide a spark to the Ravens' offense, ultimately backfired. Johnson's arrival was met with optimism, as he joined a team considered a Super Bowl contender after leaving the struggling Panthers. However, his role in Baltimore's offensive scheme remained unclear, particularly after he was sidelined during a game against the Eagles following an injury to teammate Rashod Bateman.
The timing of Johnson's release is noteworthy, occurring just a day before a crucial divisional matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Ravens' decision to part ways with Johnson so close to a pivotal game suggests a significant breakdown in the relationship between the player and the organization. Despite being the Panthers' leading receiver earlier in the season, Johnson struggled to find his footing in Baltimore, recording a mere six yards on a single catch in 39 snaps.
The Ravens initially surrendered a fifth-round pick to acquire Johnson, a relatively low cost that minimizes the impact of the failed trade. While the team hoped Johnson would contribute to their playoff push, his brief and unproductive stint ultimately led to his release.
