Chris Johnson Signs with the New York Jets

Nov 24, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Tennessee Titans running back Chris Johnson (28) runs past Oakland Raiders cornerback Mike Jenkins (21) in the first quarter at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Chris Johnson agreed to a 2 year deal with the new York Jets today, according to ESPN’s Adam Achefter.

Contract terms are coming soon. UPDATE:

Due to the lack of buzz Johnson received after his release, I would assume that the money per year will be far less than the $8M per year he was due to receive in Tennessee (and possibly less even over 2 years).

The Jets had the 6th best rushing offense in the NFL last season and did not lose any backs to free agency. Johnson’s production has declined since his 2,009 yard rushing season in 2011 that led to him signing a 4-year, $53.5M contract with the Titans. Johnson averaged a career-low 3.9 YPC this past season, although according to Johnson, he hurt his knee in the 3rd game of the season. He underwent surgery in January to repair the torn meniscus, and only resumed running about a month ago.

However, Johnson is still only 28 years old and has posted over 1,000 yards rushing in each of his 6 seasons in the NFL. He also owns the record for most 80-yard TD runs in his career with 6. The next player has only 3.

The Jets still have powerback Chris Ivory on the roster, so Chris Johnson will likely assume the role of a speedy change-of-pace back and pass catcher out of the backfield. Johnson could give Geno Smith (or Mike Vick) a home run threat as a receiver. Johnson caught 42 passes this season, only 3 shy of New York’s team leader, Jeremy Kerley, with 45. 

Johnson was released by the Tennessee Titans on April 4th after back-to-back lackluster seasons. The Jets emerged as the only serious suitor for Johnson after Johnson visited New York on Tuesday, marking the first team visit he made since his release.