3 NFL Teams Crazy Enough to Take a Chance on Trumaine Johnson After Jets Release Him
By Jerry Trotta
To say that the New York Jets didn't get a good return on investment when they doled out $45 million guaranteed to then-free agent cornerback Trumaine Johnson in the 2018 offseason would be a calculated understatement.
The Jets have made a plethora of mistakes in free agency in their history, and Johnson's shortcomings in the Big Apple undoubtedly rank among the worst. Unsurprisingly, the organization released the former third-round pick on Monday.
Despite flopping with Gang Green, don't be surprised if some teams take a flyer on the 30-year-old veteran. Let's highlight some of those teams, shall we?
3. Las Vegas Raiders
Don't let the Raiders' reported interest in Tom Brady distract you from the fact that Jon Gruden is clamoring for an overhaul in his secondary. Given how woeful Johnson's tenure with the Jets was, he likely won't command big money. Desperate teams tend to do stupid things, and Las Vegas absolutely fits that bill.
2. Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals conceded the second-most passing yards per game -- a whopping 281.9 -- in 2019, and the franchise will surely be looking for a starter to position opposite star CB Patrick Peterson. Johnson has experience playing in the NFC West, having previously spent four seasons with the Rams. Arizona may just come calling for the Montana product.
1. Detroit Lions
As the Lions prep for a reboot this offseason, they are reported to be shopping standout cornerback Darius Slay, who wants to be dealt to a contender. That would leave Detroit with a gaping hole in its secondary. Assuming general manager Bob Quinn doesn't want to splash the cash on coveted CBs like Byron Jones and Chris Harris Jr., don't be surprised if the Lions make an offer for Johnson.