John Harbaugh’s vague response to not playing Diontae Johnson in Eagles loss throws a question mark on WR’s future with Ravens
Despite a receiver shortage, John Harbaugh shows little interest in playing newcomer Diontae Johnson.
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John Harbaugh and Diontae Johnson (Image via IMAGO/X)
Diontae Johnson only joined the Baltimore Ravens in late October and yet his future with the franchise looks bleak. On Sunday, head coach John Harbaugh did not field the sixth-year veteran even though Rashod Bateman picked up a knee.
In four games since joining the Ravens, Johnson has just one catch for six yards. It’s a unique situation as Johnson may be of great use for the Ravens as a slot receiver. However, Harbaugh doesn’t appear to be confident in services.
On Monday, Harbaugh spoke with the media but kept his answers vague about Johnson.
At this time… I am going to have to wait. There are some moving parts there that we’re going to have to figure out and explore and see where we’re at. It’s the best I can do in fairness to everybody.
John Harbaugh said via Ravens beat writer Sarah Ellison
John Harbaugh gave a cryptic answer when asked if WR Diontae Johnson will be on the team after the bye.
— Sarah Ellison (@sgellison) December 2, 2024
“We’ll just work it out and see where we’re at over the next few days.” pic.twitter.com/ZRXXWm18mM
The Ravens faced the Philadelphia Eagles at home, a fixture that had a lot riding on it. Despite a bright start to the season, the Ravens witnessed a dip in fortune, losing against the Browns and barely beating the Bengals and Chargers. The Eagles, on the other hand, were unbeaten in seven games with an astute defense.
Harbaugh preferred using running backs as receivers on occasion instead of sending Johnson into the game. Their passing game struggles were clearly visible in Zay Flowers’ frustrated body language. Perhaps giving Johnson a few snaps was the call of the hour.
I see Diontae Johnson is rubbing off on Zay Flowers. pic.twitter.com/v62GsRVQ0g
— Portersburgh (@PortersBurgh) December 1, 2024
Lamar Jackson backs Diontae Johnson
Transition from one team to another is never easy, especially in the middle of the season. It takes time to learn the routes and all the signals from the coaches. Some manage to pick it up quickly, while others tend to need an extended period.
It’s unclear which category Johnson falls into because he appeared in four games for the Ravens and then suddenly Harbaugh wants to adopt a cautious approach regarding the 28-year-old’s game time. Quarterback Lamar Jackson, on the other hand, believes Johnson is a very capable wideout.
He’s a great receiver. We didn’t get him from the Panthers for nothing. I don’t think so.
Lamar Jackson said
Johnson left the Pittsburgh Steelers who drafted him in the third round in March to join the Carolina Panthers. The Ravens decided to trade for the Toledo graduate after seven games into the season. He has played 88 games in the NFL, recording 422 catches for 4726 yards and 28 touchdowns.
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Ishan Misra
(3107 Articles Published)