While the New York Jets have made the quarterback and wide receiver positions a priority this offseason, they are starting to take glances at the remaining free agents in various positions. In need of all the offensive upgrades they can get, the Jets are keeping an eye on the available running backs prior to the NFL Draft. With almost everyone already locked up, do they pull a trade for Chris Johnson?
New York is removing themselves from the DeSean Jackson sweepstake, but they are considering putting their name in the running to land Johnson whether it be by trade or release. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport is reporting that the Jets, while reluctant to show interest in Jackson, but are ready to make a move for Johnson in the near future.
The Jets are not going to trade for Johnson. The veteran is simply not worth enough to give up something like a late-round draft pick. CBS Sports is reporting that the Tennessee Titans are planning on releasing Johnson this week in order to avoid paying his $8 million salary due in 2014. Most teams are aware that Johnson will be let go. He put up a career-low 3.9 yards last season and that is not going to cut it with his high salary.
The Jets could seriously use a running back upgrade. The team currently has Chris Ivory, but he is injured more times than not. He put up 833 yards last season while averaging 4.6 yards per carry. Bilal Powell ranked second with 697 yard. Adding Johnson to the mix would certainly help out second-year pro Geno Smith.
While the Jets appear very interested in Johnson, the Atlanta Falcons are not. Earlier in the week it was reported that the Falcons could make a move for the veteran after Steven Jackson struggled with injuries and production for most of last season. Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com reports the Falcons are not looking to add another veteran to the mix for their running back rotation. Instead, Atlanta will target a rookie in the draft to place behind Jackson and Jacquizz Rodgers for next season.
Johnson will have plenty of suitors once released by the Titans. The Cleveland Browns and Jacksonville Jaguars are also in need of running backs, so he can expect to take a few visits.