It seems like a lifetime ago that Chris Johnson was the next-best running back of the NFL. The Tennessee Titans veteran rushed for over 2,000 yards in 2009 which earned him an extra-large contract. However, after a down year Johnson is not long for leaving the Titans, something he hopes does not happen.
Johnson has been a reliable back, posting several back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons for the team, but his contract is not working in his favor. With three games left on the year, many believe the running back could be released due to money. His current contract expires in 2016. He is scheduled to make $8 million over the next two years and then $7 million in 2016. That is a lot of money for a veteran that is only averaging 3.8 yards per carry with 820 yards on the season. Despite the low numbers, Johnson has every intention to remain in Tennessee.
"Every player on this team is only guaranteed three more games this season, and basically at the end of the day, whatever happens, happens," Johnson said, via the Tennessean. "All I can worry about is the next game. Of course I want to be here. I signed a contract to be here, so if it was up to me I'll finish my career as a Titan."
Johnson stresses that he still feels as good now as he did back when he put up 2,000 yards. Despite being in his sixth year in the league, the veteran says his legs are fresh and he is hoping that he can continue to show that in Tennessee. However, the Titans are looking to make moves in the offseason in the areas of their quarterback and possibly their head coach. The NFL Network reports that Johnson, along with quarterback Jake Locker are both expected to be released.
The market is not favorable for aging running backs, but there will be plenty of interested teams should Johnson actually get released. The Jacksonville Jaguars and the Oakland Raiders could be the most likely landing spots for the running back. Maurice Jones-Drew will become a free agent at the end of the season and it seems unlikely that the Jaguars will retain him considering the veteran has the team ranked last in rushing. With plenty of cap space, Johnson could be a nice fit.
The Raiders are the next best option since Darren McFadden's contract is expiring and after missing a solid chunk of this year due to injuries, Reggie McKenzie does not appear too keen on keeping him around. Rashad Johnson is developing into a solid back for the Raiders and adding Johnson could give the team an excellent two-man rotation.
