The Carolina Panthers have made a notable trade, sending wide receiver Diontae Johnson along with a sixth-round pick in 2025 to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for a fifth-round pick in 2025, according to a reliable source. This trade has not yet been officially confirmed, and the individual chose to remain anonymous in discussions regarding the deal.

Diontae Johnson was the leading wide receiver for the Panthers since he joined the team in an offseason deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he was traded for cornerback Donte Jackson. Throughout his time with Carolina, Johnson accumulated 30 catches for 357 yards and three touchdowns. However, he was sidelined for the recent 28-14 defeat against the Denver Broncos due to a rib injury. Johnson is anticipated to hit the market as an unrestricted free agent after the conclusion of the current season.

On the Ravens’ side, two-time MVP Lamar Jackson is enjoying a standout season, boasting a 115.4 passer rating along with 2,099 yards and 17 touchdown passes against only two interceptions. With the addition of Johnson, Jackson’s receiving options have widened, now including second-year wideout Zay Flowers and 24-year-old Rashod Bateman, in addition to several promising tight ends.

Nevertheless, concerns linger regarding Baltimore’s defense, which may hinder their overall performance. In a loss to Cleveland over the weekend, the Ravens allowed a staggering 401 yards, leaving them with a record of 5-3 and trailing behind the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC North. With the trade deadline approaching, it appears that the Ravens may explore further transactions to bolster their lineup.

Conversely, the Panthers, struggling with a 1-7 record, are likely transitioning into a selling strategy as they aim to enhance their draft picks for the next season. The current state of their season necessitates a focus on rebuilding for the future as they grapple with performance challenges.