Steelers' Mike Tomlin Takes A Direct Shot At Ravens' Diontae Johnson

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a massive trade early in the 2024 offseason, sending wide receiver Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers. The move shocked many fans, as Johnson had been a key playmaker for Pittsburgh in recent years. Yet just halfway through the 2024 season, the Panthers turned around and dealt Johnson to their division rival, the Baltimore Ravens, ahead of the trade deadline. Since joining Baltimore, Johnson has had a quiet start, with limited involvement in their offense and a rough performance in his last outing.

The Ravens have an array of offensive weapons, which has made it challenging for Johnson to find his rhythm in their system. Though his first two games haven’t showcased his talent, Johnson's potential to impact the field is undeniable. Baltimore’s coaches are likely working to integrate him further, and as he gains familiarity with their playbook, he’s expected to become a more reliable target for quarterback Lamar Jackson. Despite his recent struggles, Johnson’s speed and route-running skills make him a threat that defenses must account for.

Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin addressed the challenge of facing his former receiver during his Tuesday press conference. When asked how he’s preparing to counter Johnson, Tomlin seemed to take a massive shot at his former wide out.

"To be honest with you, I haven’t thought a lot about it," Tomlin said. "He’s not on a lot of their video. At this stage in the week, I don’t know if I weighed what he might mean to the matchup. They have more significant pieces with larger roles that are occupying my attention at this point in the week."

When the Steelers traded away Johnson, many questioned the decision. If Pittsburgh needed to boost their offense, why let go of one of their top playmakers? Reports surfaced suggesting that Johnson’s presence had become a source of frustration within the organization, with internal issues causing friction. However, Tomlin stated that the trade was simply an opportunity to acquire cornerback Donte Jackson, a player they were eager to bring in.

Johnson undeniably contributed as a talented receiver for the Steelers, but he sometimes appeared disengaged, and his attitude didn’t always align with the team’s values. At times, he seemed out of touch with issues impacting the organization, which may have led the Steelers to feel ready to move on. The team ultimately valued a more cohesive environment, and Johnson’s exit cleared space for a fresh start on offense.

Steelers' Mike Tomlin Isn't Worried About Ravens' Diontae Johnson

Tomlin’s recent comments about Johnson might seem surprising, as he expressed little concern over his former player. With Baltimore’s deep offensive lineup, Tomlin’s focus has shifted to other threats, stating that Johnson isn’t on his radar currently as they prepare for the Ravens. 

Instead, he highlighted the challenge posed by Baltimore’s other playmakers, including Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, Tylan Wallace, and Nelson Agholor, along with the Ravens’ talented tight end duo, Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely.

The Ravens’ offense is stacked with playmakers, but their defense isn’t as formidable as in previous years. Meanwhile, the Steelers’ defense is one of the best they’ve fielded in recent memory, setting up an exciting test to see if Pittsburgh can stifle Baltimore's high-powered attack. With the AFC North likely coming down to these two teams, the Week 11 showdown carries high stakes. Familiar faces on both sides make this game must-watch television.

Though Tomlin is usually careful with his words, he may have given Johnson some bulletin board material. It will be interesting to see what kind of impact Johnson has as he takes on his former team, and whether his presence becomes a key storyline in this divisional battle.

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