As the Baltimore Ravens look to continue their strong 2024 NFL season, one key player is set to experience a unique emotional challenge in Week 11.
Diontae Johnson, who joined the Ravens after a stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers, is preparing for his first matchup against his former team. Despite the excitement of a fresh start with Lamar Jackson and the Ravens, the wide receiver is reflecting on his time with the Steelers as he readies himself for an emotional return to Pittsburgh.
The Ravens have been dominant this season, currently holding a 7-3 record. Lamar Jackson and his teammates are locked in on a tough divisional battle against the Steelers, who have been inconsistent but always dangerous. For Johnson, this game is particularly significant as it marks his first time back in Pittsburgh since leaving the team. Having spent five years with the Steelers, Johnson built lasting relationships in the city and enjoyed some high points, but his final season in Pittsburgh didn’t quite meet expectations.
Reflecting on his time with the Steelers, Johnson shared his gratitude for his years in Pittsburgh but emphasized that he is now fully focused on his role with the Ravens. “Man, I had a great career there. I loved it. Great city, great people. I know what they’re about. I can’t wait to get to Sunday, to just be back in that stadium,” Johnson said. For the wideout, the emotional stakes are high as he returns to the city where his NFL career began.
Although Johnson is excited for the return, he knows that stepping into the visitor’s locker room at Heinz Field will bring a new set of challenges. “Just being back in that stadium, where it all started, it’s going to be different. I’ve actually never been in the away locker room [in Pittsburgh], so that’s going to be a first for me,” he remarked. This game is much more than just a regular-season contest — it’s a significant moment in Johnson’s career as he faces off against the franchise that drafted him.
Despite the sentimental value of the game, Johnson is focused on contributing to the Ravens’ success in a tough matchup against a Steelers defense that is always tough to break down. “They’re working me in there slowly, but, you know, I just go out there, and whenever they call my number, I’ll do my thing,” Johnson said. While he is adjusting to the Ravens’ offensive system, he understands that his role may continue to evolve as the season progresses. With two appearances already under his belt, he’s still working to establish his rhythm with Lamar Jackson and the rest of the team.
Johnson’s contributions in Baltimore have been limited so far. In his two games with the Ravens, he has only logged six rushing yards, one reception, and two targets. While these numbers aren’t reflective of his talent or previous production with the Steelers, they highlight the early stage of his integration into the Ravens’ offense. For Johnson, this game against his old team is an opportunity to turn things around and prove why he was brought in to help the Ravens stretch their already potent offense.
As Jackson and the Ravens prepare for the Steelers, they’ll need Johnson to step up. The Ravens have a dangerous mix of young talent and seasoned stars, and Johnson’s ability to form a connection with Jackson will be crucial to their success. The quarterback’s ability to distribute the ball is well-documented, but having a receiver like Johnson in the mix can open up more dynamic options for Baltimore, especially against a Steelers defense that has proven difficult to break down in the past.
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While Johnson has not yet fully showcased his abilities as a Raven, he’s taking a patient approach. “I can’t go in expecting a lot or putting too much pressure on myself. However, the game goes, I’m all for it,” he said. His willingness to stay adaptable and not force the issue shows maturity, understanding that the Ravens’ offense is a well-oiled machine, and he’s just one piece of a larger puzzle.
In many ways, the Week 11 matchup against the Steelers could be a pivotal moment for Johnson to prove himself as a valuable contributor. While his former teammates in Pittsburgh might be familiar with his game, they’ll have to adjust to a new version of him in a Ravens uniform. Johnson is looking forward to showing his old team that he’s still the same player who made an impact in Pittsburgh for years.
The Ravens’ offense has been clicking this season, but as they head into their Week 11 showdown with the Steelers, they need all hands on deck. The Ravens’ 7-3 record is impressive, but Pittsburgh is a divisional rival with a history of tough, physical games. With the Steelers’ defense expected to bring pressure, the Ravens will need to execute at a high level — and that includes getting the best out of Johnson. His ability to mesh with Lamar Jackson in the coming weeks will be one of the factors to watch as Baltimore continues its playoff push.
Looking forward, Johnson will undoubtedly have more opportunities to showcase his talents in Baltimore’s offense. But for now, this game in Pittsburgh is about more than just football. It’s a chance for Johnson to demonstrate that his time with the Steelers was just the beginning of his NFL journey, and that his future in Baltimore is filled with promise.
As the Ravens head into Week 11 with high expectations and a tough road ahead, Johnson’s return to Pittsburgh will be a defining moment in his career. Whether he plays a starring role in the game or contributes in a quieter manner, the game will mark a significant milestone in his journey as a Baltimore Raven. For Johnson, it’s not just about facing his old team — it’s about proving to everyone, including himself, that he still has much to offer.
