Ravens WR Zay Flowers Speaks Out on Suspended Teammate Diontae Johnson

The Baltimore Ravens continue to grapple with the fallout from wide receiver Diontae Johnson’s team-imposed suspension. One of the team’s rising stars, wide receiver Zay Flowers, has weighed in on the situation, offering a mix of support for Johnson and respect for the organization’s disciplinary actions.

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Speaking to reporters, Flowers made it clear that Johnson remains an integral part of the team, describing him as “one of my guys; he’s one of our guys,” according to ESPN’s Jamison Hensley. Flowers further emphasized that Johnson would be welcomed back with open arms once his suspension ends. However, he was careful not to undermine the Ravens’ decision, acknowledging the importance of team rules and the consequences that come with breaking them.

“We understand both sides and there are consequences that come with this game,” Flowers said. “I know he’ll be back soon and that’s all we worry about.” The 2023 first-round pick demonstrated maturity by addressing the situation diplomatically, balancing his loyalty to Johnson with his understanding of the team’s stance.

Johnson’s suspension stems from a Week 13 incident when he refused to enter the game against the Philadelphia Eagles. The Ravens’ head coach, John Harbaugh, and general manager, Eric DeCosta, responded decisively, suspending Johnson for the Week 15 matchup against the New York Giants. Despite the suspension, Harbaugh has remained tight-lipped about Johnson’s return, deferring to the team’s official statement: “I think the statement said there would be no further comment on that. We’ll kind of leave it at that and we’ll see where it goes.”

Johnson’s absence has been felt on the field. The Ravens lost to the Eagles 24-19, a game where the offense struggled to create explosive plays. Acquired from the Carolina Panthers via trade, Johnson was brought in to bolster the passing game and provide quarterback Lamar Jackson with another dynamic target. His limited involvement and subsequent suspension have only added to the frustration of players like Flowers, who acknowledged the need for more help in the receiving corps.

Ultimately, while the Ravens are standing firm on their disciplinary measures, the consensus among players is clear: Johnson’s return would strengthen the team. Flowers’ measured comments underscore the importance of resolving the situation quickly, as the Ravens look to maintain their playoff push and make the most of their offensive potential.