MAJOR BOOST: Shocking Move As Baltimore Adds Another Top-Notch Player.

The Baltimore Ravens have enhanced their passing game by trading for wide receiver Diontae Johnson from the Carolina Panthers. A seasoned player and former Pro Bowler, Johnson joins quarterback Lamar Jackson and the NFL’s top offense, bringing added depth to Baltimore’s receiving lineup.

In the trade, the Ravens sent a fifth-round pick to Carolina in exchange for Johnson and the Panthers’ sixth-round pick. Despite interest from other teams, the Ravens secured the deal just before the trade deadline, potentially improving their passing strategy as they aim to remain competitive in the AFC North.

This marks Johnson’s second trade this season, having been acquired by the Panthers from the Pittsburgh Steelers earlier.

He becomes one of only three receivers to catch passes for both the Steelers and Ravens since 2000. Notably, Johnson is the fourth Pro Bowl-caliber wide receiver traded this month, and his experience with sideline routes could significantly impact Baltimore’s offensive scheme.

During his time with the Panthers, Johnson’s season was hampered by a rib injury, causing him to miss a recent game against Denver.

Although there was speculation about the injury’s connection to his trade prospects, Panthers head coach Dave Canales referred trade inquiries to general manager Dan Morgan.

Despite a challenging season for Carolina, Johnson had shown interest in re-signing, but the team’s 1-7 record likely made a trade seem advantageous for both parties.

Now in Baltimore, Johnson will join receivers Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman. The Ravens have been cautious with three-wide-receiver sets, using them only 163 times this season—the second-fewest in the NFL.

Jackson, enjoying his best passing season with 2,099 yards, could benefit from Johnson’s expertise in sideline routes, an area where Baltimore has struggled. Johnson’s skills may help the Ravens maximize their offensive potential.

General manager Eric DeCosta is known for making bold in-season trades, with this being his fourth significant move in six years. Previous acquisitions like Marcus Peters and Roquan Smith have greatly influenced the Ravens’ competitiveness.

Johnson’s addition aligns with Baltimore’s goal to strengthen their roster and fine-tune their offense as they look ahead to the playoffs.

Meanwhile, the Panthers will adapt their receiving corps without Johnson, relying on veterans like Adam Thielen and younger players such as Xavier Legette and Jalen Coker to fill the void.