The Pittsburgh Steelers made a shocking choice to part ways with their star wide receiver Diontae Johnson early in the 2024 offseason. Johnson was traded to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for cornerback Donte Jackson. This move bolstered the Steelers' secondary with Jackson, but the decision to let go of Johnson significantly weakened the receiving corps, raising questions about who would step up in his absence.
In an unexpected twist, the Panthers then traded Johnson to the Steelers' AFC North rivals, the Baltimore Ravens, setting the stage for two intense matchups between Johnson and his former team this season. Johnson, eager for the challenge, shared his excitement with Baltimore media, stating he’s looking forward to facing the Steelers and proving his worth as a key piece for his new team. His familiarity with Pittsburgh’s defense and culture could add a unique edge to these high-stakes divisional showdowns.
Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. reacted to the news with a mixture of excitement and resolve, expressing his readiness for the challenge in an interview with Brian Batko. Porter acknowledged Johnson’s talent but sees the matchups as a chance to lock down his former teammate.
"I’m excited for it," Porter said. "We had our battles at the facility [in practice] my rookie year, so I get to go against him on game day. Kind of already got used to him a little bit. It’s gonna be fun out there."
Batko asked Porter how intense the first meeting between the two teams is expected to be, especially with added stakes this year.
In the 2024 offseason, the Steelers signed former Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen and also welcomed safety DeShon Elliott, another ex-Raven. Porter explained that these additions make the matchup even more meaningful, adding an extra layer of intensity to the rivalry.
"Exactly — it makes it all the more better, all the more chippier," Porter said. "I feel like he’s gonna be ready and we’re gonna be ready for that moment, as well."
The Steelers reportedly decided to trade Johnson due to the headaches he had been causing the organization. As the team explored trade options, it became clear that the Kansas City Chiefs were highly interested. However, the Steelers were reluctant to keep Johnson in the AFC and ultimately sent him to the Panthers in the NFC.
Porter has a unique perspective on this rivalry, having played alongside Johnson during his rookie season. Now, in his second year, Porter has the opportunity to lock down his former teammate in games that carry significant weight.
Steelers-Ravens Rivalry Set To Be Extra Intense
The rivalry between the Steelers and Ravens has always been intense, and with both teams emerging as top contenders in the AFC North, the stakes have never been higher.
The presence of familiar faces on both sides only adds to the intensity, ensuring that these matchups will be even more electrifying. Steeler Nation is excited, just like Porter, to see their team try and lock down a former member of the black and gold.
