The Baltimore Ravens are bolstering their offense with a familiar AFC North face—Diontae Johnson. After an up-and-down stint with the Carolina Panthers, Johnson now joins Lamar Jackson and the NFL’s top-ranked offense, adding another dimension to an already dynamic Ravens lineup.
Here’s a look at how Johnson’s addition could shape Baltimore’s offensive strategy, depth, and Super Bowl hopes as they head into the second half of the season.
A Strategic Move For Lamar Jackson And The Passing Game
Baltimore’s trade for Diontae Johnson signals a serious commitment to its passing attack. For the Ravens, giving Jackson a new weapon is about maximizing the MVP candidate’s stellar season. Jackson ranks fifth in passing yards (2,099) this season and sits third in yards per attempt (9.7) when targeting receivers, trailing only Sam Darnold and Jared Goff. Yet, Baltimore’s passing game hasn’t been fully leveraged on the outside, with Ravens wideouts logging only 29 catches on passes thrown outside the numbers—the third-lowest in the NFL.
Baltimore’s trade for Diontae Johnson signals a serious commitment to its passing attack. For the Ravens, giving Jackson a new weapon is about maximizing the MVP candidate’s stellar season. Jackson ranks fifth in passing yards (2,099) this season and sits third in yards per attempt (9.7) when targeting receivers, trailing only Sam Darnold and Jared Goff. Yet, Baltimore’s passing game hasn’t been fully leveraged on the outside, with Ravens wideouts logging only 29 catches on passes thrown outside the numbers—the third-lowest in the NFL.
Johnson’s proven ability to create separation on the outside should boost Jackson’s options in critical areas of the field. Known for his knack for working the sidelines, Johnson has racked up 242 catches on passes outside the numbers since 2019, ranking sixth league-wide. His expertise in this area not only opens up the offense but could also make Jackson’s job easier against some of the league’s tougher defenses down the stretch.
How Diontae Johnson Fits With Baltimore’s Receivers
Johnson’s arrival will undoubtedly affect the current receiving rotation. Zay Flowers is on track for a breakout rookie year with a projected 1,120-yard season, while Rashod Bateman is already hitting career highs in receptions and touchdowns. Baltimore typically fields just two receivers on most plays, and with tight ends Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely also factoring into the offense, the Ravens don’t heavily rely on three-wide sets. Johnson’s presence, however, gives them the flexibility to spread defenses wider when they choose to, which could become a crucial tactical advantage.
Johnson’s arrival will undoubtedly affect the current receiving rotation. Zay Flowers is on track for a breakout rookie year with a projected 1,120-yard season, while Rashod Bateman is already hitting career highs in receptions and touchdowns. Baltimore typically fields just two receivers on most plays, and with tight ends Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely also factoring into the offense, the Ravens don’t heavily rely on three-wide sets. Johnson’s presence, however, gives them the flexibility to spread defenses wider when they choose to, which could become a crucial tactical advantage.
Flowers, Bateman, and veteran Nelson Agholor will still be key pieces of the passing game, but Johnson provides insurance if one misses time. Adding him also lets the Ravens test more aggressive formations, giving offensive coordinator Todd Monken room to innovate. Johnson is more than just an added target—he’s another way for Monken to stretch defenses and open the field.
The Cost And Rationale Behind The Trade
The Ravens acquired Diontae Johnson for a fifth-round pick in the 2025 draft while also receiving a 2025 sixth-rounder from the Panthers. Baltimore will cover only around $625,000 of Johnson’s salary this season, which keeps the team well within their limited salary-cap space of roughly $4 million. For a team aiming for a Super Bowl, it’s a minimal investment for an experienced player who knows the AFC North.
Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta has made four in-season trades over the past six seasons, landing big names like cornerback Marcus Peters and linebacker Roquan Smith. This move follows that pattern, as DeCosta took advantage of Carolina’s willingness to part with Johnson. Baltimore’s front office sees Johnson as a low-cost, high-reward addition who can contribute immediately on offense—and maybe on special teams, where the Ravens have been weak all year.
Potential For Chemistry And Challenges
Baltimore has a track record of successfully integrating personalities into its locker room, with Odell Beckham Jr. being a recent example. Johnson is known to be vocal about his role and has expressed frustrations over playing time and touches in Pittsburgh and Carolina. However, the Ravens’ culture may help him find a fresh start in a winning environment. This team asks its players to embrace a selfless attitude, which has paid off across the roster, from Mark Andrews to the wide receiver corps. If Johnson can buy into that mentality, he could become a valuable contributor without disrupting team chemistry.
Baltimore has a track record of successfully integrating personalities into its locker room, with Odell Beckham Jr. being a recent example. Johnson is known to be vocal about his role and has expressed frustrations over playing time and touches in Pittsburgh and Carolina. However, the Ravens’ culture may help him find a fresh start in a winning environment. This team asks its players to embrace a selfless attitude, which has paid off across the roster, from Mark Andrews to the wide receiver corps. If Johnson can buy into that mentality, he could become a valuable contributor without disrupting team chemistry.
Johnson’s track record with drops and finishing plays will be something to watch. He’s a pending free agent, and if the Ravens get deep into the playoffs, Johnson’s role could increase his market value. Until then, Baltimore offers a unique opportunity for him to demonstrate his value and make a push for a title run.
Ravens Add Diontae Johnson To Boost Offense, Eyes Still On Defense
By trading for Johnson, the Ravens took a smart step to strengthen their offense and keep Lamar Jackson’s passing attack dynamic. Baltimore’s offense already leads the league in both DVOA and rushing, but adding Johnson makes them even tougher to defend. Meanwhile, the Ravens’ defense still faces issues with pass coverage, inconsistent pressure, and a thin defensive line due to injuries.
General Manager Eric DeCosta might still be planning a defensive move before the Nov. 5 trade deadline, especially with the Ravens expected to have four compensatory picks in the 2025 draft. Whether they add a pass rusher or a defensive back, Baltimore’s front office seems set on building a well-rounded team for a serious Super Bowl run.
