Potential New York Jets: RB Chris Johnson

Dec 29, 2013; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans running back

(28) walks off the field after the Titans

As we move along this off-season, and the Jets try to fill their needs, an interesting name has come up. Chris Johnson from the Titans is coming up on the New York Jets’ radar. Despite the fact that he hasn’t been released yet, reports are indicating that the Jets are interested in the running back.

Let’s talk about it, take a look at his stats below.

Rushing & Receiving

He has been a consistent player throughout his six-year career to date. He has rushed for at least 1,000 yards in each of his first six years.

People are going to look back at his season in 2009, when he achieved his nickname “CJ2K”, by rushing for over 2,000 yards to lead the NFL. People against bringing him in are going to note the fact that he has never played to that level since.

It is true, after 2009, Johnson’s top performance on the ground has been for just over 1,300 yards. But, that doesn’t mean he couldn’t have a positive influence on the Jets’ offense.

For one, the guy is never hurt. Since joining the league in 2008, Chris Johnson has missed only one game, which is quite impressive for someone who plays the running back position. A guy that is always active can do nothing but help.

Chris would also fit right into a backfield that includes the hard running, but oft-injured, Chris Ivory, along with the change of pace of Bilal Powell. Chris is durable, and if history is any indication, will be there when the team needs him.

As far as the drop off in yardage, that can be attested to weaker play at the quarterback position, and less of an emphasis on the running game. These two factors are going to combine to prevent most running backs from achieving a season like 2,000 yards.

He can catch the ball as well, which is an asset to the West Coast offense. CJ has averaged over 45 receptions per season, which is a dream come true to the Marty Mornhinweg scheme.

Chris is also 29 years old, right in the prime of his career. He has football left in him. He can also carry the load in the event of an injury, as through his career, he has never toted the rock less than 250 times.

Finally, being $28 million under the salary cap leaves the Jets the ability to pay the guy, which not a lot of teams can say at this point.

Whether the Jets make a trade or wait until he is released, Chris Johnson would make an excellent addition to the team.

Sound off below with your thoughts.