Diontae Johnson is returning for a second stint with the Ravens, but it has nothing to do with helping the Ravens win the Super Bowl this season.
Baltimore claimed the former receiver off waivers from the Texans on Wednesday, but he won't be officially added to the roster until Feb. 10, the day after the Super Bowl.
Johnson is scheduled to be eligible for unrestricted free agency this offseason, which is likely why the Ravens brought him back.
The 28-year-old has been “awarded” to the Ravens, which would make him eligible for a compensatory draft pick in 2026 if he signs elsewhere, helping Baltimore without returning to the field. You will be able to do this.
The former Steelers wideout was spotted sitting in his locker upset over lack of playing time and opportunities and was waived by the Texans on Tuesday after the team's wild-card win over the Chargers.
Johnson had just three catches for 24 yards in two games against Houston, and head coach DeMeco Ryans understandably decided to move on from Johnson.
The Texans will play the Chiefs in the district round on Saturday.
“Unfortunately, things didn't work out with Dionte,” Lyons told reporters Tuesday. “We’re heading to the Chiefs.”
The Texans placed Johnson on waivers on Dec. 23 after the Ravens released him after he refused to play in the Dec. 1 game against the Eagles.
In Baltimore, he had just one catch for six yards.
Johnson, a third-round draft pick in 2019, was one of the NFL's most productive receivers during his five seasons with the Steelers.
He was a Pro Bowler in 2021 with 391 catches, 4,363 yards, and 25 touchdowns, but was traded to the Panthers in March 2024.
Carolina released him to the Ravens in October, and he is now back in Charm City.
