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The Cleveland Browns have been one of the most active teams in the league this offseason, This has seen them bring aboard several proven talents on the offensive side of the ball in the process.
This has potentially led to veteran running back Duke Johnson a bit of a tight position of playing time next season. During a Q&A session via Browns Zone, Scott Petrak voiced that he believes that Johnson will see some “reduced” time on the field in the 2018 campaign.
Article Continues Below“I think his role will be reduced to a degree, but not significantly. He’s too talented and consistent and proved his immense value last year as the team’s best offensive player.
“But I see where you’re going with the question. I wondered if the additions of Jarvis Landry as a slot receiver and Carlos Hyde and Nick Chubb in the backfield were greasing the skids for the departure of Johnson, whose rookie contract is set to expire after this season. But after talking to Johnson during OTAs last month, I’m convinced his optimism is legitimate and general manager John Dorsey wants to keep him long term.
“Regarding his role this year, expect Johnson to be the third-down back, play some slot receiver (he’s been there in practice) and get enough carries to keep the defense honest.”
It is no slight toward Johnson, but rather that the Browns now have a plethora of talent on the offensive side of the ball. At the running back position alone, the team has brought aboard some major depth with the free agent signing of Carlos Hyde along with the selection of former Georgia standout Nick Chubb in the second round of this year's draft.
All of this could leave Johnson competing for playing time in his fourth season given that there is some promising talent alongside him. The 24-year-old had demonstrated in the 2017 campaign that he can be a major asset in the passing game setting career highs with 74 receptions for 693 receiving yards along with three touchdowns. This could be his way of earning his way onto the field this upcoming season.
There is clearly a difficult path for Johnson to be relied upon heavily in the offense, but it is a chance to truly etch out a definitive role in Cleveland.
