Ahead of this week’s classic AFC North rivalry matchup between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin addressed the media on a topic that many fans find intriguing: the reunion with former Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson, who is now playing for the Ravens. Johnson spent several seasons in Pittsburgh, where he became a reliable target, but Tomlin seemed unfazed by facing his former player, downplaying Johnson’s role in the Ravens’ offense.
“He’s not on a lot of their video,” Tomlin told reporters. “They’ve got more significant pieces with larger roles to worry about.”
A Pragmatic Approach by Tomlin
Tomlin’s remarks reflect his big-picture approach to the game. While fans might view this as a reunion with the potential for a “revenge game,” Tomlin’s comment underscores his commitment to focusing on Baltimore’s primary playmakers. This pragmatic approach is a classic Tomlin move; he’s focused on managing his team and preparing them for the significant threats on Baltimore’s offense.
Johnson’s role with the Ravens has been somewhat limited, with the Ravens featuring a host of other offensive weapons, including star quarterback Lamar Jackson, versatile tight end Mark Andrews, and rookie wide receiver Zay Flowers. These players have been focal points in Baltimore’s game plans, so Johnson’s presence may not require the Steelers’ defense to adjust in any specific way.
Focused on Baltimore’s Key Offensive Pieces
Rather than being caught up in the storylines surrounding former players, Tomlin remains focused on the Ravens’ biggest threats. With Jackson’s dual-threat abilities, Andrews’ red-zone dominance, and Flowers’ explosive potential, the Ravens bring plenty of challenges for Pittsburgh’s defense. Tomlin’s priority is to neutralize those key players and force Baltimore to find alternate ways to move the ball.
“We know what [Johnson] can do, but our attention is on their larger pieces,” Tomlin added, reiterating his point that the team’s primary objective is to contain Baltimore’s core playmakers rather than dwell on the narrative of a former Steeler in Ravens colors.
The Bigger Picture in the AFC North Showdown
Tomlin’s down-to-business comments set the tone for a rivalry game that has playoff implications. The Steelers and Ravens are both vying for positioning within a highly competitive AFC North, where every game matters. For Tomlin and the Steelers, keeping their focus on the Ravens’ main threats while tuning out distractions is crucial for maintaining their edge.
Ultimately, Tomlin’s remarks about Johnson serve as a reminder of his disciplined approach. For him, this game is about executing the team’s game plan, not engaging in narratives or sentimental returns. Tomlin has one goal: to secure a victory for the Steelers, and his approach underscores why he’s one of the most respected and effective coaches in the NFL.
