Devontez Walker shows Diontae Johnson good things come to those who wait

The Baltimore Ravens are handling business against the New York Giants, up 28-7 early in the fourth quarter. While the scoreboard reflects a comfortable win, the storylines off the field are just as telling as the action on it.

Diontae Johnson, brought in at the trade deadline to spark the Ravens’ offense, was inactive for the second straight game—and it’s entirely self-inflicted. His suspension following last week’s refusal to enter the Eagles game has turned him into a headline for all the wrong reasons. Instead of helping Baltimore during their playoff push, Johnson has become a sideshow.

But as Johnson sits out, fourth-round rookie receiver Devontez Walker is seizing the moment. Walker’s standout play tonight isn’t just about stats; it’s about showing the Ravens’ brass and coaching staff that he can deliver when the lights are brightest.

Devontez Walker puts Diontae Johnson's antics in the spotlight

Walker’s biggest moment came late in the third quarter. On third-and-1 at the Giants’ 21-yard line, Lamar Jackson dialed up a deep shot, and Walker made it count. His 21-yard touchdown grab wasn’t just a dagger in a lopsided game—it was his first career NFL catch.

Walker’s ability to find separation, adjust to the throw, and finish the play showcased the kind of hustle and reliability that has been glaringly absent from Johnson’s brief tenure in Baltimore. Where Johnson has brought drama, Walker has brought effort. Where Johnson has been a distraction, Walker is becoming a trusted piece of the offense.

Walker’s touchdown not only highlights Johnson’s failures; it also opens up a broader conversation about opportunity. The rookie wide receiver has been quietly putting in the effort, and with standout performances like the one against the Giants, it’s easy to envision him earning more playing time as the season progresses.

Walker’s touchdown was his moment—a chance to prove he could make an impact when it mattered. While he hasn’t had many opportunities this season, he made this one count, showing exactly why the Ravens took a chance on him in the draft.

For Johnson, the clock is ticking. If Walker continues to step up, Baltimore won’t have much reason to look back on what has been a disastrous experiment. The Ravens don’t tolerate distractions, and if Walker can keep delivering, the team will gladly take production over pedigree.

Walker showed that good things truly come to those who wait—and work. If Johnson doesn’t figure that out soon, his spot on this roster might not be waiting much longer.

More Baltimore Ravens news and analysis