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Baltimore Ravens claim wide receiver Diontae Johnson off waivers for strategic reason

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Diontae Johnson warming up before a game (2024)
Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Diontae Johnson warming up before a game (2024)Getty Images via AFP / Scott Taetsch
The Baltimore Ravens claimed Dionte Johnson (28) off waivers on Wednesday after being cut from the Houston Texans ahead of the Divisional Round of the NFL playoffs, but it's not for what fans may think it is.

According to a report by ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Ravens have no intention of bringing Johnson back to play. But what's at stake that the Ravens are interested in acquiring is a compensatory pick for the 2026 NFL Draft.

If the Ravens or Texans win the Super Bowl, Johnson is technically qualified to receive a Super Bowl ring from either team. However, given the locker room incident with the Texans and Johnson refusing to go into a game and play while he was on the Ravens, it's going to be an awkward call to make if either hoist the Lombardi trophy in the end. 

Baltimore originally traded for Johnson at the trade deadline this season from the Carolina Panthers before ultimately suspending him from team activities and then cutting him. Johnson now has just one more catch (four) than the teams he's been on (three) since Week 8 of the regular season.

Johnson has 33 receptions, 375 yards, and three touchdowns this season between the Ravens, Texans, and Panthers. 

The Ravens are set to take on the Buffalo Bills on Sunday at 6:30 p.m. Eastern time.