Diontae Johnson is preparing for an emotional return to Pittsburgh, where he spent the first five seasons of his NFL career with the Steelers before being traded to the Carolina Panthers and later to the Baltimore Ravens.
Johnson, a third-round pick in 2019, quickly became a key figure in Pittsburgh’s offense, known for his precise route-running and ability to create separation.
Over his five years with the Steelers, he recorded 391 receptions, 4,363 yards, and 26 touchdowns. Now, as a member of the Ravens, Johnson is set to face his former team in Pittsburgh on Sunday in a high-stakes AFC North showdown between the 7-3 Ravens and the 7-2 Steelers.
"Just being back in that stadium, where it all started, it's going to be different," Johnson shared on the Ravens’ official site.
"I actually have never been in the away locker room, so that's going to be different for me, but I'm ready to get back there, just to see the good people that I made relationships with, but other than that, it's a big moment for me,” he added.
In response to recent comments from Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin, Johnson took the high road, keeping his focus on the positive aspects of his return.
Tomlin seemed to downplay Johnson’s impact, stating, “To be honest with you, I hadn't thought a lot about it. He's not on a lot of their video, and so at this stage of the week, I don't know that I've weighed what he might mean to the matchup. They got more significant pieces with larger roles that are occupying my attention at this part of the week.”
Some fans viewed Tomlin’s remarks as a subtle jab, but Johnson’s measured response showed he was focused on the game and his connections in Pittsburgh.
With playoff implications on the line, Johnson’s presence brings an added storyline to this already intense rivalry. His return could prove significant as he looks to help the Ravens secure a crucial win in his former home stadium.
