The clock is ticking for Chris Johnson. The running back is expected to be the next big free agent story this offseason, it is just a matter of when. The Tennessee Titans plan on releasing their one-time star and when they do, several teams could be in the market for him.
Johnson's agent notes that his client will be released sometime before the end of the week. The running back is owed $8 million next season and that is a lot of money to pay an aging veteran, especially a running back. NFL.com's Ian Rapoport is reporting that Johnson will headline free agency once he is released, being the best player available. While his numbers have taken a dip, Johnson has not missed a game in his tenure with Tennessee, something that is valued very high.
Johnson should not sit on the market for long, barring any outrageous contract demands. The running back will have to take a pay cut no matter where he ends up signing because no team will pay him that $8 million for what will likely be a one or two-year contract.
The team ready to make a move on Johnson once he is available appears to be the New York Jets. The team has been looking for offensive upgrades for most of the offseason. The Jets made the first move to addressing those needs finally after a month of free agency. The team signed Jacoby Ford to a deal. Ford was a one-time star himself. He ran the fastest 40-yard dash time in the 2010 draft. He spent four years with the Raiders before becoming a free agent. After missing the entire 2012 season with a Lisfranc injury, Ford's stock dropped off big time.
The Jets likely use Ford as a hybrid player. He can play wide receiver and compete for the return man job. Ford assured New York media on Wednesday that his recent injuries have not hurt his speed and he still has plenty to bring to the team despite his low numbers in Oakland.
Johnson will be the perfect fit for the Jets. He can come in and compete for a starting spot and help out second-year quarterback Geno Smith. The Jets are keeping an eye on others available if they miss out on Johnson. Felix Jones or Willis McGahee could be options.
