The Cleveland Browns have made some significant changes to their roster this offseason. Despite all the hype, running back Duke Johnson has made it clear that he would like to be moved elsewhere.
There is no question that Johnson can see the writing on the wall for his reduced role going into the 2019 NFL season.
According to Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, general manager John Dorsey indicated that they have no plans to trade him:
‘He's a member of this organization moving forward.” He said Freddie Kitchens views him as a vital part of offense. Says Johnson's trade request doesn't change anything.
This is certainly not the most encouraging update for Johnson. The 25-year-old has etched out a role for himself in Cleveland as their go-to back in passing situations. Unfortunately, their recent influx of talent in the backfield has seemingly left him feeling indifferent about his role moving forward.
One cannot blame Johnson for wanting out of Cleveland. Although both sides had agreed to a three-year extension last offseason, this was before the Browns went ahead and made a multitude of changes to the backfield. the emergence of Nick Chubb as the bell-cow back led to front office trading the newly-signed Carlos Hyde to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Meanwhile, the Browns also made headlines with the signing of former Kansas City Chiefs running back Kareem Hunt.
While Hunt is still suspended for the first eight games of the season, it is safe to assume that Cleveland has big plans for him upon his return. For now, it appears the Browns will rely on Johnson as the complementary option to Chub while Hunt serves his suspension.
The best he can hope for at this point is to be moved at the trade deadline.
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