He was just traded from the Steelers this past March, but Diontae Johnson has already found a new home. The former star receiver was just traded for the second time this year. He was dealt to the Baltimore Ravens, which should concern fans. Even though he was not producing the same numbers that he was in Pittsburgh during his time with Carolina, things could change quickly on his new club.
It seems like every other contending team in the AFC is loading up on talent before the trade deadline except for the Steelers. They have remained in the rumor mill, but nothing seems to be getting across the finish line. Perhaps Pittsburgh won't make any moves before the deadline passes and will stick with the group they have. It certainly seems like that logic could cost the black and gold.
Adam Schefter of ESPN announced that Johnson was traded to the Ravens. He should be an immediate impact player for Baltimore. They had some quality receivers on their team, but Johnson provides a true number one option they have been missing.
The Ravens have always been a pain in the Steeler's side, but this trade has only intensified their rivalry to another level.
Diontae Johnson traded to Ravens could be ugly for Steelers
Not only did the Ravens strengthen their chances to beat the Steelers in the second half of their schedules, but they added a former player of Pittsburgh's. Every fan had a little pep in their step when they saw Johnson struggle to a certain degree with the Panthers. It showed that the grass isn't always greener on the other side, which he quickly learned.
Pittsburgh won the Johnson trade back in March. Donte Jackson has been a quality cornerback for the black and gold, while Johnson is already on a new team. Things won't be easy when the Steelers take on the Ravens, as their schedule only gets more difficult as the season progresses. Now that they have upgraded their receiving core, that challenge only gets tougher.
Johnson wearing the purple color of the Ravens will be an odd sight to witness after he played five years for the Steelers. He will now join a contending Baltimore group that is trying to get over their playoff hump that has been full of disappointment. He should fit into that room well, but it will all depend on how Lamar Jackson can perform when games matter most.
Having a mobile quarterback is something each team in the NFL needs. Jackson has been the best mobile quarterback since he jumped into the NFL, but his continued weakness has been his decision-making and the use of his arm. Having Johnson join the Ravens is a nice upgrade for them, but it won't matter much if Jackson cannot distribute the ball properly with his arm.