In an unsurprising move, the Ravens announced that they have waived receiver Diontae Johnson. The former Steelers player has had quite the 2024, seeing himself traded twice, and now finds himself a free agent. While his year has been full of controversy, you can’t help but feel like Pittsburgh may try to kick the tires on him ahead of the playoffs.
Johnson’s time with the team came to an end early in the offseason, as he was traded to the Panthers for Donte Jackson and a late-round pick swap. Most viewed the initial trade in favor of the Panthers, as Jackson had been hot and cold as a cornerback while Johnson was a dependable, albeit streaky, top receiver option.
His time in Carolina was relatively brief. A slow start to the year eventually gave way to a strong stretch with veteran Andy Dalton throwing him passes. He was on pace for 73 receptions for roughly 870 yards and seven scores, all respectable numbers considering how limited the Panthers were on offense. However, with the playoffs off the table and on an expiring contract, the Panthers took what they could get in a minimal trade to the Ravens.
This is where the wheels came off.
Johnson found himself for the first time in his career buried on the depth chart and struggling to find snaps on a run-heavy team. His production came to an abrupt halt, and he was clearly displeased with his role. This culminated in him refusing to enter a game, getting suspended by the team, and now being waived.
Why in the world would the Steelers want Diontae Johnson back?
There are plenty of great and valid reasons that the Steelers should steer clear from Johnson, and if they ultimately decide to bypass him as an option, I will not be shocked. That said, he is a player who knows the system to an extent and can potentially give this team an actual second option in the passing game.
Given the brutal stretch of offensive ineffectiveness with George Pickens on the sideline, it would make sense. He would be ready to go by the playoffs, give this team another weapon in the passing game, and provide the team with a cheap upgrade to a lackluster receiver room.
Johnson, on the other hand, would have to know he needs to be on his best behavior. Right now, he has zero value to a team, and opting to not play is a horrible look for a player. If he were to join back p with Pittsburgh, he could show that his time in Baltimore was a fluke. A few solid receptions and zero off-the-field issues and suddenly he could land a respectable prove-it deal in the offseason.
As for the Steelers, they would have essentially gotten the services of both Jackson and Johnson for a reduced cap hit in addition to a jump in picks in last year's draft. Not a bad look for the front office. And even if he were to struggle and not amount to much, he wouldn’t be signing for any more than the veteran minimum.
That being said, the last thing this team needs is a distraction, and if they feel like they can’t reign Johnson in, then he shouldn’t be signed. If he humbles himself and wants his redemption story, the team should entertain it. We should know our answer sometime early next week.
