The Chris Johnson saga has been drawn out much longer than expected.
In January, rumors first swirled that a divorce between Johnson and the Tennessee Titans was imminent. In March, it was reported Johnson was on the trading block before last week the talks resurfaced that the team was ready to part ways with the former 2,000-yard back.
Apparently, it should be any minute now.
In an interview with SiriusXM NFL Radio with Alex Marvez and Gil Brandt, Johnson’s agent, Joel Segal, did not say whether or not Johnson would be released or traded, only that it’s “clear” that the running back “will be gone soon.”
Agent Joel Segal tells @Gil_Brandt & me @SiriusXMNFL he spoke with @TennesseeTitans 2day and its “clear” @ChrisJohnson28 “will be gone soon”
— Alex Marvez (@alexmarvez) April 3, 2014
One team that has jumped to the forefront is the New York Jets. According to reports, the Jets have kept an eye on Johnson this offseason and would like to add him to their backfield if and when he’s available. New York is one of the few teams with enough salary cap space (about $35.7 million) to absorb Johnson’s contract via trade or as a free agent once he’s released.
The Miami Dolphins are entertaining the idea of adding a veteran wide receiver to the mix.
Former Detroit Lions wideout Nate Burleson told NFL Network’s “Around the League” he is set to visit Miami.
Nate Burleson will visit the Miami Dolphins, @wyche89 said on @NFL_AM
— NFL: AroundTheLeague (@NFL_ATL) April 3, 2014
Burleson, 33, has drawn some interest from both the Dallas Cowboys and Titans this offseason, though neither rumors garnered much traction. In mid-February, the Detroit News suggested Burleson would find a home in the near future.
The Lions released at the start of the offseason to clear some cap space to sign Golden Tate in free agency. Burleson was due $5.5 million in 2014 after an injury riddled 2013 campaign in which the wide receiver totaled 39 receptions for 461 yards and one touchdown in nine games played. Burleson’s numbers have taken a sharp turn downward over the past two seasons as the aging veteran has struggled to remain on the field.
