Duke Johnson’s replacement already on Cleveland Browns roster
By Cory Kinnan
D’Ernest Johnson
D’Ernest Johnson is most well known for finishing second in the short-lived Alliance of American Football in rushing this past season. Rushing for more than former Browns running back Trent Richardson in the AAF this year, Johnson rushed for 372 yards and two touchdowns on 64 carries for the Orlando Apollos; this gave him an average of nearly six yards per carry.
He parlayed his AAF domination into a spot on the Browns’ training camp roster, and now sits as their third running back with Hunt out until week ten behind just Chubb and Hilliard. Johnson could replace Johnson as he has displayed some consistent ability to hit holes with burst during camp.
While Johnson is not much of a proven receiver in his career, a mold the Browns could be looking for as a change of pace back, it does not mean he does not possess the skill set. Chubb was not asked to be a receiver while at the University of Georgia, but showed last season that he does not lack the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield.
The third and final back that has a chance to win the job as Chubb’s backup was just added to the Browns’ roster at the end of last month. After a super productive college career, an undrafted rookie is looking to make a name for himself.