Pay cuts? Chris Johnson is not talking about pay cuts. The Tennessee Titans running back appears to be aware that his time with the team is coming to an end as they also deal with uncertainties surrounding their quarterback situation and their head coach. While knowing his contract does not work in his favor, the running back says a pay cut is not in the cards for him in the future.
Johnson is set to make $8 million next season. He is averaging 3.8 yards per game with the struggling Titans and he needs 50 more rushing yards in the final week of the season to record his sixth-straight 1,000 yard year. Johnson is not playing like the running back that once recorded 2, 006 yards, but the Titans certainly are not that great of a team. While stressing that he would love to remain in Tennessee, Johnson is not willing to decrease his upcoming salary.
When asked about a cut in salary, Johnson said to the Tennessean, "No way. I don't feel like it's all my fault. It's a team effort."
"I know I am way better than trying to get 1,000 yards in the last game. But looking at the situation, it is a whole bunch of things that go into it. So I don't get too down on myself. I know when I get the ball and put in the right situation I can still do the same things."
Johnson does not lack for confidence despite his decreasing numbers. He only has one 100-yard game this season while putting up 90 yards against the Jaguars. His contract calls for another $8 million in 2015 and $7 million in 2016. Is Johnson worth it? He thinks so.
"There's not a doubt in my mind I can get back there," Johnson said. "I have taken so many hits since I first got into the league, but I can still run in the 4.2s, and I don't know many guys six years in at running back who can say that."
Titans president Tommy Smith said it was too early to determine whether or not the Titans would release the running back. He praised Johnson's willingness to do whatever the team needs of him and they certainly appreciate his veteran presence. They might appreciate his presence, but not to the tune of $8 million. Johnson understands a release is possible, but he does not believe he will be out of work long.
"There's nothing I can do about it. At the end of the day I've had a great time here and I appreciate all they have done for me. ... I think it would be sad on both parts, but being in this league for so long I understand there is a business side of it," Johnson said.
The Oakland Raiders, Jacksonville Jaguars and Cleveland Browns will all likely be looking for a top running back come next season. The Raiders and Browns appear to be the front runners to land a running back despite the high salary.