Many are questioning why large receiver Diontae Johnson refused to play within the Ravens-Eagles recreation. On Wednesday, December 4, GM Eric DeCosta of the Baltimore Ravens introduced on X (previously Twitter) that Johnson can be suspended for an upcoming recreation towards the New York Giants for “conduct detrimental to the group.” He stated that it was a “troublesome determination,” however the penalty was handed out on account of him selecting to not play regardless of being energetic. Right here’s a breakdown of why consultants say that Johnson determined to not step out on the sector.
Why was Diontae Johnson suspended by the Ravens?
Specialists say Diontae Johnson selected to not play within the Eagles recreation, resulting in his suspension, as a result of he has been annoyed by “his lack of utilization since arriving in a commerce.”
That is in line with Jordan Schultz, a FOX Sports activities NFL insider, who provides on X that after his suspension that “extra conversations are more likely to occur” as as to if the receiver will stick with the group. He notes that the Ravens reportedly consider that he’ll nonetheless “assist them down the stretch,” however need him to be absolutely dedicated and team-focused, notably on condition that this a contract yr for Johnson.
On the time of the Eagles recreation, many have been confused as to why Johnson was not within the recreation. Quarterback Lamar Jackson, per Ebony Bird, stated that he needed Johnson on the sector as “he’s an incredible receiver.”
Nonetheless, Johnson solely performed 17 snaps in his debut recreation for the Ravens in Week 9 and his appearances in video games afterwards have been low. Since being acquired from the Carolina Panthers on October 29, he has solely performed a complete of 39 snaps and has solely caught had one catch for six yards regardless of being a lead receiver for the Panthers.
One fan of Johnson claims on X that the Ravens solely traded for him to not use him, however to dam different groups from getting him. That stated, customers on the Steelers Reddit say that Johnson, who performed for the group from 2019 to 2013, has a popularity of being a “problematic participant” who “threw suits when issues didn’t go his manner.” Some remark that it’s ironic for a participant to refuse enjoying in a recreation as a result of they’re not enjoying in video games.
