The Tennessee Titans running back roster is getting a bit crowded as free agency continues. After signing Dexter McCluster and retaining Shonn Greene, there appears to be little room for veteran Chris Johnson. The Titans are pursuing a trade of the running back. If that deal fails, what does Johnson's future hold with the team?
The signing was McCluster was pretty telling of where Johnson stands with the team. The former Kansas City dual threat signed a three-year deal worth $12 million and $4.5 million in guaranteed money. McCluster has seen time as a running back, wide receiver and kick returner after getting drafted in the second round by Kansas City back in 2010. However, the Titans said they intend to primarily use McCluster as a running back, meaning Johnson is likely on the move.
Tennessee continues to dangle the one-time leading rusher in trade moves. ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that with the way free agency is shaping up, a trade of Johnson is highly unlikely. So far the market has not seen any trades go down as teams have opted to simply release players instead. Both Darrelle Revis and Julius Peppers were trade bait and ended up getting outright cut. The Titans are expected to do the same.
Johnson has said he is willing to take a pay cut if that would help facilitate a trade faster. After originally denying the idea of lowering his salary back in December, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport notes the running back is open to the idea if that means he can move on to a team that wants him. Johnson is due $8 million next year and has no chance of earning that amount of money anywhere.
Johnson has a lot of miles on his legs and he is a far cry from the leading back he once was. However, if teams feel they can sign him for cheap, there might be some partners circulating. The Oakland Raiders could be an option. The team lost Rashad Jennings to free agency and was forced to re-sign Darren McFadden instead. Having Johnson and McFadden in the backfield is not an ideal situation, but be a last resort move.
The Atlanta Falcons could consider Johnson. The team was already predicted to draft a running back this year, but could opt to take Johnson instead if he is cheap. Steven Jackson will return as the No. 1 back, but he is not an every down player. Jacquizz Rodgers is productive, but has seen his highs and lows. Johnson could fill out the rotation.
It is likely that no one will trade for Johnson. The Titans will be forced to simply release him like other teams have done with their untradeable veterans. Johnson has a better shot of finding life as a free agent.
