Derrick Johnson has decided to join his old rivals in the AFC West. The former Kansas City Chiefs linebacker has agreed to stay in the division and join the Oakland Raiders, according to Michael Silver of NFL Network.
The Raiders have agreed to terms with former Chiefs LB Derrick Johnson @nflnetwork @AroundTheNFL
— Michael Silver (@MikeSilver) May 4, 2018
Johnson, who played 13 years with the Chiefs, made his first known free-agent visit with Oakland yesterday. He parted ways with Kansas City in February as part of the team’s decision to get younger on defense but stated his desire to keep playing.
Johnson played and started 15 games for the Chiefs last season, with the lone game he missed coming in an inconsequential matchup in Week 17. He had 71 total tackles but was clearly showing signs of slowing down at age 35.
However, the Raiders have a need at middle linebacker. Head coach Jon Gruden, who is a fan of taking chances on aging veterans, apparently thinks Johnson can still provide decent production on the field apart from a strong veteran presence.
Johnson will likely split time with Marquel Lee at middle linebacker for the Raiders defense this season. Lee, who was the team’s fifth-round pick last season, had 22 total tackles in 13 games (six starts).
Johnson’s addition will also most likely spell the end for NaVorro Bowman’s time in Oakland. Bowman signed with Oakland shortly after his release from the San Francisco 49ers and started 10 games at middle linebacker for the Raiders. However, he couldn't come to terms on a deal to return with the Raiders.
As for Johnson, he’ll have to wait until December to get the chance to face his old team. The Raiders host the Chiefs on Dec. 2 and end the regular season at Arrowhead on Dec. 30.
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