Ravens Make Roster Moves Ahead of Crucial Steelers Showdown
The Baltimore Ravens are making significant roster adjustments as thay prepare for their pivotal matchup against the pittsburgh Steelers this Saturday. In a surprising move, the team has parted ways with veteran wide receiver Diontae Johnson, who was acquired from the Carolina Panthers earlier this season. Johnson’s tenure in Baltimore was brief, resulting in only one reception across four games.
Adding to the intrigue, Johnson’s release follows a one-game suspension handed down by the Ravens for his refusal to enter the game against the Philadelphia Eagles on December 1st. He was afterward excused from team activities last week, culminating in his departure.
To bolster their roster for the crucial divisional clash, the Ravens have activated running back Desmond King and wide receiver Anthony Miller.
The stakes are incredibly high for both teams. A victory for the Steelers (10-4) would secure their first AFC North title as 2020. Conversely, a win for the Ravens (9-5) would propel them into a tie with Pittsburgh atop the division, giving them a 45% chance of clinching the title, according to ESPN Analytics.
Adding to the Ravens’ challenges, wide receiver Nelson Agholor will be sidelined for the game due to concussion protocol. This absence,coupled with the uncertainty surrounding starting wide receiver Rashod Bateman’s foot injury,could leave Baltimore with a relatively inexperienced receiving corps for this critical contest. Bateman, who was seen wearing a protective boot in the locker room on Thursday, remains questionable for the game.
Diontae Johnson Released: A Panic move or Calculated Gamble?
Welcome back, sports fans, to another edition of Gridiron Gab, were we dissect the hottest topics in the NFL. Joining me today is former Baltimore Ravens wide receiver, adn Super Bowl XLVII champion, Jacoby Jones. Jacoby, thanks for taking the time.
Jacoby: It’s always a pleasure to be here.
Hold on to your helmets, folks, because we’re diving deep into the Ravens’ roster shakeup just days before their showdown with the Steelers. The news of Diontae Johnson’s release after only four games, including a suspension for refusing to enter a game, has left many scratching their heads. What are your initial thoughts on this, Jacoby?
Jacoby: First off, I was surprised to see Diontae go. He’s a talented receiver, but the fact that he refused to play is a red flag. you always need guys who are willing to fight for every inch on the field.
That’s a fair point, and it highlights the importance of clubhouse chemistry, even when discussing a player acquired mid-season.
Looking at the bigger picture, this move seems risky, especially with Nelson Agholor out due to concussion protocol and Rashod Bateman’s foot injury still uncertain. Isn’t this essentially throwing young receivers into the fire against a tough Steelers defense?
Jacoby: It’s a gamble, no doubt about it. But maybe the Ravens are signaling confidence in their young guys like Anthony Miller, who they activated from the practice squad. Sometimes, these moments can push players to step up and prove themselves.
Do you think this was a knee-jerk reaction to Johnson’s behavior, or was this a calculated move by the Ravens to shake things up before a pivotal game?
Jacoby: I wouldn’t say knee-jerk. This institution has a strong culture, and a player refusing to play disrupts that. Maybe they’ve been seeing things in practice that led them to this decision, nonetheless of Johnson’s limited time in Baltimore.
This game is absolutely crucial for both teams. The Steelers are fighting for the AFC North title, while the Ravens look to stay in the chase. What are your predictions for Saturday night’s matchup?
Jacoby: This is going to be a slugfest. both teams have incredible defenses, so expect a low-scoring game. I have to give the edge to the Steelers.They have more offensive weapons right now, but don’t count out Lamar Jackson and the Ravens.They’ll come ready to fight.
I couldn’t agree more. This game could come down to the wire.
Thanks for sharing your insights, Jacoby.
Jacoby: Anytime!
What are your thoughts on the Ravens’ roster moves? Did they make the right call? Let us know in the comments below and join the conversation!
