The Pittsburgh Steelers made a shocking move early in the 2024 offseason to trade away star wide receiver Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers, receiving cornerback Donte Jackson in return. The decision to part with Johnson, who had been a key playmaker for Pittsburgh, left fans stunned and raised questions about the team's wide receiver depth. Meanwhile, Jackson added valuable depth to the Steelers' secondary, which had been an offseason priority. Still, trading away Johnson was a bold move that set off a series of unexpected roster shifts.
After Week 8, the Panthers made another wild move, trading Johnson to the Steelers' AFC North rival, the Baltimore Ravens. The news quickly caught fire among AFC North fans, as Johnson joined the very team that the Steelers face twice each season. For Baltimore, acquiring Johnson signaled a serious commitment to adding firepower in their race for the division title.
In his first time speaking with the media as a Raven, Johnson didn’t shy away from the implications of playing the Steelers. He expressed respect for his former teammates, but hinted that he was looking forward to showing Pittsburgh what they gave up.
"I'm looking forward to that game, man," Johnson said with a big smile. "But like I say, l'm focused on right now. Whatever game comes first before we get to that point, I'm gonna do my job and just keep appearing."
The media asked Johnson what he remembers from his past matchups with the Ravens. Having faced them countless times during his career with the Steelers, Johnson knows well the intensity of this rivalry.
He went on to share his memories, highlighting just how fierce these battles have been.
"Just how hard we compete against each other," Johnson said. "Getting the football out, making plays, and everybody tackling. It's a big rivalry game. So just being this side now, it's different. I'm excited."
The Steelers traded Johnson amid reports that the organization had grown frustrated with the distractions he was creating. Despite his undeniable talent, showcased over five seasons, Johnson’s departure left a noticeable gap in Pittsburgh’s offense.
In 77 games with the Steelers, he racked up 391 receptions, 4,363 receiving yards, and scored 25 touchdowns, making him a key contributor and a reliable target. His trade raised immediate concerns about wide receiver depth but was balanced by the arrival of Jackson, who bolstered Pittsburgh's secondary.
Steelers Will See A True Test Of The Trade Against Baltimore
The upcoming matchups between the Steelers and the Ravens will be the true test of that trade, as Jackson is likely to line up against the player he was traded for. Fans will watch closely to see who proves more valuable, with Johnson now suiting up for the rival Ravens. It will be strange for Steeler Nation to see him in purple and black, but Pittsburgh’s loaded defense remains confident in their ability to slow down Baltimore’s offense, which now includes Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry, and Johnson.
Adding to the storyline, the Steelers also signed two ex-Ravens, linebacker Patrick Queen on a three-year, $41 million deal, and safety DeShon Elliott, both of whom are looking forward to this rivalry clash.
With the AFC North shaping up to be competitive, these two matchups between Pittsburgh and Baltimore could carry significant playoff implications. The stakes are higher than ever as both teams battle for division dominance and postseason spots.
