Los Angeles Rams Leaning Towards Tagging Trumaine Johnson
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Los Angeles Rams are leaning towards applying the franchise tag to cornerback Trumaine Johnson.
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The move is a tad unexpected due to the unknown, but perceived unfortuitous negotiations currently being had between the Rams and fellow cornerback Janoris Jenkins.
#Rams are leaning toward franchise tagging CB Trumaine Johnson, sources say. A bit unexpected, but there is a lot of outside interest in him
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 27, 2016
The aforementioned Jenkins also reportedly swapped agents today per NFL Insider Jason La Canfora, switching to the firm Schwartz and Feinsod. A move that may signal Jenkins entering the market.
with free agency approaching and him in demand, Rams CB Janoris Jenkins has changed agents and hired @schwartzfeinsod I'm told
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) February 27, 2016
Both corners had career years in 2015, Jenkins displayed much safer play, making 64 tackles, a career high 15 pass deflections, three interceptions and forced fumble.
Johnson on the other hand recorded a career year in every major category, putting up 71 tackles, 17 pass deflections and an NFC-leading seven interceptions, one of which returned for a touchdown.
Earlier this month, Johnson posted on his Instagram a picture of him and Jenkins sitting side by side with the caption, “Package Deal” more or less indicating that either both players return, or neither do.
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The current number for tagging a cornerback is $13.95 million for the 2016 season, a large, albeit manageable number for the Rams, with the recent news the franchise will be carrying over just under a million dollars in cap space from the previous year giving the team over $60 million in cap space.
If not tagged, with so much salary cap $ available, CB Trumaine Johnson would be top 3 at position. CAR in same boat w/ Norman.
— . (@BridgesFootball) February 27, 2016
If tagged, Johnson would be the first Rams player to receive that designation since former safety O.J. Atogwe in 2009.