Ravens’ newest addition’s lack of playing time shouldn’t raise eyebrows

While several football fans expected a high-scoring affair, the Baltimore Ravens are locked in a defensive battle with the Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday Night Football. At halftime, the Purple and Black trail the Cats 14-7.

This game was a sharp contrast to what fans saw in Week 5 when the teams faced off in Cincinnati. In that first matchup, both teams racked up over 950 yards of offense and 79 points, with the two quarterbacks going back and forth to combine for nine touchdowns.

No shootout is happening tonight.

Baltimore's offense has been uncharacteristically slow. Jackson hasn't moved the ball down the field like he has all season long. Even though he's completed 71% of his throws, he only has 71 passing yards.

At the trade deadline, the Ravens acquired wide receiver Diontae Johnson from the Carolina Panthers. This move aimed to counter previous high-profile receiver trades, including those for Davante Adams, Amari Cooper, and DeAndre Hopkins.

However, Johnson recorded just 17 of the 57 offensive snaps against the Denver Broncos last week, not accumulating a catch. Tonight, he has rarely been seen on the field again. So what gives? Is there something they aren't telling us?

Why aren't the Ravens utilizing Diontae Johnson?

When Baltimore traded for Johnson, head coach John Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Todd Monken expressed early and often that Johnson wouldn't get much playing time.

The message was confusing at first, but upon further explanation, the move makes sense: Johnson needs more time to learn the offense.

While the news about Johnson's gradual integration may not be groundbreaking, it reflects Baltimore’s careful planning. With Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman already anchoring the receiving corps, the Ravens aren’t in a rush to push Johnson into a major role immediately.

Eric DeCosta’s savvy negotiating made this mid-season addition possible, but the team can afford to be patient with Johnson's development. Expect a few highlight-reel moments as he settles in, with his full impact likely to shine as the Ravens prepare for the playoffs. For now, fans should keep expectations realistic as Johnson gets acclimated.

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