Jets CB Trumaine Johnson ready to bounce back in 2019

The New York Jets are hoping for a bounce-back season from cornerback Trumaine Johnson in 2019, and that’s exactly what he plans to give them.

Just one offseason ago, Trumaine Johnson signed a five-year, $72.5-million deal with the New York Jets. That kind of money brings high expectations, like being a shut-down corner for a team still pining for the prime days of Darrelle Revis.

Unfortunately, Johnson’s first season with the Gang Green didn’t live up to the hype, and injuries and inconsistency held back the cover man who had previously starred for the Los Angeles Rams.

Heading into 2019, Johnson is ready to live up to his pay grade (via team reporter Ethan Greenberg):

Of course, dealing with injuries is a part of the game. I wish I could’ve been healthy for all of my games, but it’s bounce back time, so I’m ready for it.

The Jets have a new defensive coordinator in Gregg Williams, who just happened to be Johnson’s coach in Los Angeles. He’s fully aware of Johnson’s capabilities, and believes he can get back to a high level of play:

His best years were when we were together. He’s really motivated. He understands me. I understand him. It’s my job to try to help him be the best he can be. He’s excited. I’ve been excited about the work that he has put in here and even away. We’re monitoring things. There’s a good familiarity there. I can’t wait to get going and get back in games together because he and I have had some really good moments together.

Johnson won’t have to do it alone this year, either. The Jets have one of the NFL’s most dynamic young safety tandems in Pro Bowler Jamal Adams and Marcus Maye, a stud free agent addition in linebacker C.J. Mosley, and a defensive line anchored by veteran Leonard Williams and No. 3 overall pick Quinnen Williams.

Considering the success he had with Williams in Los Angeles, and the talent surrounding him throughout the rest of the defense, Jets fans should expect a completely different Trumaine Johnson when the 2019 season kicks off.

What are your expectations for Johnson and the Jets defense in 2019? Give us your take in the comment section!