### Steelers' Head Coach Downplays Former Player's Impact Ahead of Crucial Matchup

The upcoming AFC North clash between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens has taken on an extra layer of excitement with the recent trade of former Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson to the Ravens. Johnson, who was drafted by Pittsburgh in 2019, spent five seasons with the team before being traded to the Carolina Panthers amid swirling rumors of a trade request. He found his way to Baltimore earlier this month.

When asked about how he plans to handle the prospect of facing Johnson on the field, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin offered a blunt assessment. Tomlin stated, "To be honest with you, I hadn't thought a lot about it. He's not on a lot of their video, and so at this stage of the week, I don't know that I've weighed what he might mean to the matchup. They got more significant pieces with larger roles that are occupying my attention at this part of the week."

Tomlin's comments may have carried a tinge of the famous Don Draper line, "I don't think about you at all." For a wide receiver like Johnson, such words could be particularly stinging. However, there's no denying the truth in Tomlin's assessment. Johnson has only played two games for his new team and is still finding his rhythm within their offensive system.

Understanding Tomlin's focus becomes clearer when considering the other challenges the Ravens present. With two-time NFL MVP Lamar Jackson leading their offense and star running back Derrick Henry now part of the team, the Ravens have plenty of firepower to keep any defensive coordinator occupied.

As the two teams prepare for their Sunday showdown, fans will undoubtedly be watching to see how the dynamics play out, especially involving Johnson and his former coach. The added storylines only intensify what promises to be a thrilling contest in one of football's fiercest rivalries.