Chris Johnson had a short stay on the costless-agent market as him and the New York Jets agreed to a two year deal. The deal was first reported by Adam Schefter on Wednesday.
Chris Johnson, who had a 2,006-yard outburst in 2009, was released by the Titans after six years of service. The franchise wanted to go a different direction and that new plan did not include the 3-time pro bowler. The Titans also wanted to go a different direction at the position and get out of Johnson's contract. Johnson has quickly found a new home and that is not a shock, as the East Carolina product continues to be one of the NFL's most explosive and consistent rushers.
Now 28 years of age Johnson has a streak of 6 straight 1,000-yd seasons, which is the longest active streak in the NFL. This type of production is tough for teams to ignore. He was a very hot name in the trade market, but every team in the running elected to wait him out knowing he was going be avaliable. Johnson rushed for 1,077 yards and scored six times on a 3.9 yards-per carry average last season.
Most would agree at this point in his career Johnson would work better in a rotation. Johnson will get that chance with his new team the Jets. The Jets currently feature Chris Ivory who is a more up-the-middle type running back. Johnson's skill set should complement him well and make New York a more versatile offensively. Johnson is still an extremely effective back when asked to explode through the seams.
Johnson's pass-catching ability is another reason the Jets signed him. He's not a great reciever, but he averages 45 receptions per season. With 42 catches last season, he was only one shy of the Jets leading reciever Jeremy Kerley. Johnson had as many recieving touchdowns as any player on the Jets last season. Johnson will fit the Jets nicely in that department.
A concern about Johnson is his health. He underwent surgery in late January to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee and resumed running only a month ago. He said after the season that he first hurt his knee in week 3 of the season. He didn't miss any games however and still managed to rush for 1,000 yards. The Jets obviously feel confident that Johnson will regain his explosiveness and not have any health issues during the season.
Johnson is the third high profile addition to the Jets offense, joining quaterback Michael Vick and wide reciever Eric Decker. Some will argue that Johnson no longer has that dimension as he only managed five runs of at least 20 yards last season. Others will argue that Johnson can still be very effective. Staying healthy in his new surrondings, Johnson could be a big comeback story this year for the NFL.