During the past season, Diontae Johnson declined to play for the Baltimore Ravens in the middle of a game. Now the wide receiver has explained the circumstances behind his decision.

The NFL is deep into the offseason, and in just over a month, Diontae Johnson will be preparing for the upcoming season at the Cleveland Browns’ training camp.

The wide receiver has had a turbulent time with many trades, dismissals, and distractions.

His non-appearance as a Baltimore Ravens player last year against the Philadelphia Eagles caused a particular stir.

The reason: Johnson refused to play even though he was standing on the sideline. Following the incident, he was suspended and later released by the Ravens.

He has now explained his motives in the podcast “Sport and Suits.”

Johnson laments lack of playing time

“I wasn’t subbed in at all at the start of the game. It was cold and I was trying to warm up by the heater. When they told me I was needed at the start of the fourth quarter, I already knew I didn’t want to do it.”

Johnson justified his decision by saying that the cold had already taken its toll on his legs and he didn’t want to play badly.

As things stand today, he will play for the Cleveland Browns next season. This means there will be two reunions within the division with the Ravens.