Breaking: Ravens Receiver’s Comments Spark Speculation About Their Future: Will They Remain in Batilmore or Seek a Fresh Start

The Diontae Johnson trade has not worked out for the Baltimore Ravens, and the latest comments by head coach John Harbaugh imply his fortunes won’t improve any time soon. A third-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, the Toledo product made a name for himself with the Pittsburgh Steelers before joining the Carolina Panthers via trade during the 2024 offseason. Johnson performed reasonably well in his new home, leading the team in receptions and yards midway through the season. However, the tanking Panthers decided to trade the wide receiver to the Baltimore Ravens at the deadline.

Now paired with an elite quarterback in Lamar Jackson, Johnson had the opportunity to bolster his value ahead of free agency. Instead, he’s done the opposite, as the wide receiver has recorded just one catch for six yards since joining the team. This probably won’t improve any time soon, as head coach John Harbaugh heavily implied Diontae Johnson is not part of the short- or long-term plans with this team.

“At this time, I’m going to have to wait just to clarify [Diontae Johnson’s role]. There’s some moving parts there that we’re going to have to figure out and explore and just see where we’re at. I know that’s not the answer you want, but that’s the best I can do in fairness to everybody right now.”

John Harbaugh Gives Cold Assessment of Diontae Johnson

Assuming he can’t get out of the John Harbaugh doghouse before the end of the season, the Ravens will be the third team to decide that Diontae Johnson is not worth the headache in a calendar year. This is devastating for the one-time Pro Bowler’s value on the open market, as Johnson is in the midst of one of the worst contract years in recent memory. Baltimore only had to give up a fifth-round pick for Johnson and a sixth, which implies teams across the league had no interest in adding the former 1,100-yard receiver.

Johnson’s shortcomings in Baltimore will likely sink his market even further. With great receivers like Tee Higgins and Chris Godwin set to hit the open market, Johnson might have to settle for a cheap prove-it deal. Looking across the league, the New Orleans Saints could give Johnson the best chance at re-establishing himself and saving his NFL future.