The news about Diontae Johnson traded from the Carolina Panthers to the Baltimore Ravens on Tuesday certainly didn’t come as a surprise. In fact, it was probably the single most anticipated deal in the entire league a week before the 2024 NFL trade deadline arrives.

However, the paltry return the Panthers got in return came pretty close to a shock. Not only did Carolina trade picks in the middle of Day 3 with Baltimore in the trade, the Panthers are too pays most of Johnson’s salary remaining for this season. Better yet, based on the comments in the locker room, it seems Diontae was popular, at least among the offensive skill players.

Here’s how rookie wide receiver Xavier Legette reacted to the deal when asked.

Legette may feel conflicted about that, but he should feel better as he starts to see his goal percentage increase in Johnson’s absence. So far in 2024, Johnson was well ahead of the team lead in goals, totaling 58. Legette ranks second with just 35 in comparison.

Other players who could benefit from the Johnson trade include undrafted rookie Jalen Coker (15 targets), rookie tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders (25 targets) and possibly wide receiver Adam Thielen, who combined for 12 targets before his hamstring injury put him on the sidelines. Thielen should return to the lineup soon, but there’s also a good chance he’ll be dealt before the deadline.

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