The Baltimore Ravens announced that they and wide receiver Diontae Johnson have reached a mutual agreement to excuse him from participating in team activities for the week. This development follows Johnson’s one-game suspension earlier in December, stemming from conduct deemed detrimental to the team.
Johnson’s suspension was issued on December 4 after he refused to enter the Ravens’ Week 13 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles on December 1. During that game, the Ravens suffered a tough loss, and the incident with Johnson drew significant attention. As the team had a bye week in Week 14, Johnson served his suspension by missing Baltimore’s Week 15 victory against the New York Giants. It was initially anticipated that he would rejoin the team’s preparations this week; however, the situation has evolved.
The Ravens confirmed that Johnson will also be absent from team activities leading up to Saturday’s critical home game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, one of Johnson’s former teams. This absence comes at a crucial time, as Baltimore is vying to match Pittsburgh’s 10-4 record and contend for the AFC North title. A victory for the Steelers in this game would clinch the division title for them.
When questioned about Johnson’s potential return to the team, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh remained non-committal. “What I foresee really, to be honest with you, and all I’m really thinking about right now is Pittsburgh and getting our team ready for Pittsburgh,” Harbaugh told reporters. “So, he won’t be here this week, and next week will take care of itself.”
The upcoming game against the Steelers carries significant implications for the Ravens’ season. Baltimore’s goal is to tie Pittsburgh at the top of the division standings, while the Steelers aim to secure the AFC North title outright with a win. The rivalry between these two teams is one of the most intense in the NFL, and the stakes only heighten the anticipation surrounding Saturday’s matchup.
Harbaugh was also asked why the team opted to excuse Johnson rather than release him outright. He declined to delve into the details, citing the complexity of the situation. “I know you guys want to hear the story,” Harbaugh said. “There’s a lot of moving parts. There are reasons for doing things that are front office type reasons. Do I want to sit here and get into all the different calculations that Eric [DeCosta, Ravens general manager] makes? I really don’t. I want to think about Pittsburgh, our team, and getting ready for Pittsburgh with the guys who are going to be here playing against Pittsburgh. That’s my focus 100%.”
Johnson’s time with the Ravens has been underwhelming so far. Since being traded from the Carolina Panthers to Baltimore on October 29, he has recorded only one reception for six yards. The lack of production, coupled with the recent disciplinary issues, has raised questions about his future with the team.
This news about Johnson follows a similar disciplinary action taken by the San Francisco 49ers against linebacker De’Vondre Campbell. The 49ers suspended Campbell for the remainder of the regular season—a total of three games—after he refused to enter a game during the third quarter of the team’s 12-6 loss to the Los Angeles Rams last Thursday. The incidents involving Johnson and Campbell highlight the challenges teams face when addressing player conduct and maintaining team cohesion during the high-pressure NFL season.
For the Ravens, the focus now shifts entirely to their preparation for the Steelers. Baltimore’s players and coaching staff recognize the importance of this game, not only for its playoff implications but also for the morale and momentum of the team as they approach the postseason. The Ravens have a strong history of resilience and adaptability, qualities that will be tested as they navigate this latest challenge.
The Ravens’ current record and position in the AFC North reflect a season marked by both promise and adversity. Despite injuries, roster changes, and off-field distractions, Baltimore has remained competitive in one of the NFL’s toughest divisions. The team’s ability to focus on the task at hand, particularly in critical moments like this week, will determine whether they can achieve their goals for the season.
Meanwhile, the Steelers are riding a wave of momentum, with a solid record and a chance to clinch the division title on Saturday. Pittsburgh’s balanced attack and strong defensive play have been key factors in their success this season. Facing a team of this caliber without the services of a key player like Johnson adds to the Ravens’ challenges, but it also provides an opportunity for other players to step up and make a difference.
As the situation with Johnson unfolds, the Ravens organization will need to evaluate their long-term plans regarding the wide receiver. Whether he remains with the team or moves on, the priority for Baltimore will be to maintain a cohesive and focused locker room environment. Team chemistry and unity are essential components of any successful playoff run, and the Ravens will be keen to ensure that these elements are not compromised.
Looking ahead, the Ravens will continue to rely on their core group of players and the leadership of Harbaugh to navigate the remainder of the season. Harbaugh’s steady hand and experience have been instrumental in guiding the team through past challenges, and his focus on preparation and performance will be critical in the weeks to come.
Saturday’s showdown with the Steelers is shaping up to be one of the most pivotal games of the season for Baltimore. With playoff positioning and divisional pride on the line, the Ravens will need to bring their best effort to secure a victory. The absence of Johnson and the distractions surrounding his situation make the challenge even greater, but they also present an opportunity for the team to demonstrate its resilience and determination.
As fans and analysts look ahead to this weekend’s game, the spotlight will be on how the Ravens respond to the adversity they face. Will they rise to the occasion and deliver a performance worthy of their playoff aspirations, or will the distractions prove too much to overcome? The answer will unfold on the field, where the Ravens and Steelers will once again write another chapter in their storied rivalry.
