Ravens Claiming Diontae Johnson Carries NFL Draft Implications

The Houston Texans are facing a tough challenge as they prepare to take on the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Divisional Round on Saturday, Jan. 18. With a depleted wide receiver corps, the Texans released Diontae Johnson on Jan. 14 in a surprising move. However, less than 24 hours later, the Baltimore Ravens swooped in and claimed Johnson off waivers.

The Ravens’ acquisition of Johnson carries significant NFL Draft implications, as explained by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Johnson, who will officially join the Ravens after the Super Bowl, is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason. His signing with another team in 2025 will likely impact Baltimore’s compensatory pick formula in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Johnson’s tumultuous 2024-25 NFL season saw him traded from the Pittsburgh Steelers to the Carolina Panthers before landing with the Ravens. Despite high expectations, Johnson’s performance with Baltimore was lackluster, leading to his suspension and subsequent release.

Now, with the Texans moving on from Johnson, they are turning to practice squad wide receiver Jared Wayne to fill the void. Head coach DeMeco Ryans expressed disappointment in Johnson’s brief tenure with the team but remains focused on the upcoming matchup against the Chiefs.

As the Ravens look ahead to the future with Johnson on their roster, the NFL Draft landscape is sure to be impacted by this whirlwind series of events. Stay tuned as the drama unfolds in the world of professional football.