Another strange turn to Diontae Johnson’s tumultuous 2024 season: The Baltimore Ravens have picked the wide receiver back up off waivers. However, it isn’t about immediate contributions, but rather about strategic positioning.
Back to Baltimore: The Ravens claimed their former WR Diontae Johnson on waivers today from the Texans, per the league’s wire. This a procedural move and Johnson won’t officially be “awarded” to the Ravens until after the Super Bowl. But he qualifies as an unrestricted free agent… pic.twitter.com/5bGRL9ymcX
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 15, 2025
Diontae Johnson’s Strange Season
Johnson’s journey this season has been anything but smooth. After beginning the year with the Carolina Panthers, he was traded to the Ravens before being waived in December following a suspension for refusing to enter a game. The Houston Texans then picked him up, where he played one regular season game and a playoff matchup. But his time there was short-lived after a reported locker room incident led to his release.
Baltimore’s Benefit
Johnson is back under Baltimore’s control, kind of. The wide receiver will not be eligible to play for the Ravens in the postseason. He’ll officially join their roster after the Super Bowl as long as he isn’t cut first. This calculated move has two possible benefits for Baltimore:
- If Johnson were to be signed by another team during free agency, his contract could help the Ravens land a compensatory pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Baltimore isn’t getting anything outright with this move, but it will most likely return some value to the team previously invested in him.
- Johnson can’t join another playoff team’s roster. The Ravens tack on their claim to him in a way that blocks competitors. Effectively removing him as a potential asset for an opponent and to protect Baltimore.
The once-rising star, Diontae Johnson, who got by on sheer talent alone and only last year played for the Pittsburgh Steelers has had his value come crashing back down to earth, mard by his behavior and unreliable play. This marks the fourth year that a team has written him off in a single season. Johnson, who has racked up 33 catches for 375 yards and three touchdowns this year has had his record trumped by a series of unfortunate antics, including being absent for a game and locker room disruptions.
Also Read: Details Emerge: Diontae Johnson Was Waived After Causing Scene in Texans Locker Room
However, what Johnson’s next chapter will look like is unknown. The Ravens’ move may come off as petty to some, but it’s actually a calculated move based on maximizing your long-term interests. How much Johnson’s NFL career rebound is mostly going to depend on how he addresses the problems that got him here in the first place.
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