The Cardinals aren’t likely to work out a long-term contract with running back David Johnson before the season gets underway on Sunday, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL.com (Twitter link). Jason La Canfora of CBSSports.com reported last week that the two sides were not close to a new deal.
However, Johnson could still hammer out a pact in-season, as Rapoport indicates talks won’t come to a close just because the season is starting. Johnson recently said he’s been “encouraged” by negotiations with Arizona, and general manager Steve Keim said today Johnson’s health question marks — he missed most of the 2017 campaign with a dislocated wrist — won’t play into discussions, per Darren Urban of AZCardinals.com.
Johnson, of course, was arguably the NFL’s best offensive player during the 2016 season. In addition to being named first-team All-Pro, Johnson managed 1,239 yards and 16 touchdowns plus 80 receptions, 879 yards, and four more scores in the passing game.
Rams running back Todd Gurley reset the running back market last month by agreeing to a new deal which contains a $14.375MM annual value and $21.95MM in guarantees, but it’s difficult to see Johnson approaching that figure. Not only is Johnson coming off a lost season, but he’s nearly three years older than Gurley. Still, a contract which tops double-digits annually should be expected for Johnson, who will earn just $1.907MM in 2018.
Wrong David Johnson link
It’s funny how according to this TE: David Johnson is comparably close to Todd Gurley. I never even imaged a TE with so many rushing yards and receptions in 2016. Should have been a first round pick for everyone. Well whoever got him, got one hell of deal.
Hopefully Keith puts down his drink long enough to get this done
David Johnson deserves to get paid! With Larry Fitz deep into the back 9, Johnson is the current & future face of the organization. Pay him what he’s worth and he’ll perform accordingly!