The Tennessee Titans did the expected today, and released running back Chris Johnson. The Titans had been trying to trade the former 2000-yard man, but were unable to find a taker due to his high salary and cap hit. The move will save the Titans over $10 million on the salary cap.
“As an organization, we want to thank Chris for his contributions to the Titans. Chris produced many memorable moments, broke franchise records and was durable over his six year career with our team,” read a statement released by the Titans.
“We have had an open dialogue with Chris’ agent, Joel Segal, over the last few weeks, and we appreciate the patience and professionalism they have shown throughout this process. We made an effort to trade Chris but were unable to do so.
“We wish Chris the best and thank him for the six seasons he spent with us.”
The 28-year-old Johnson was the Titans first round draft pick in 2008 and has spent his entire NFL career with the club. He is currently rehabbing from off-season arthroscopic knee surgery. He failed his physical today due to that surgery and is thus due $1.5 million from the Titans if he does not sign on with another team, that seems unlikely though.
Johnson posted a statement on Twitter: “I’d like to thank all of my teammates, the fans, the staff and the coaches who have supported me throughout my journey with the Titans. I have grown so much as an individual and as teammate over the past few years, and I am excited about the opportunity to bring my experience and talents to a new organization. I’m looking forward to the next chapter and can’t wait to contribute to my new team.”
The Atlanta Falcons, St. Louis Rams, New York Jets, New York Giants, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Denver Broncos have been rumored as teams who could be after Chris Johnson, now that he is a free agent. There may be other suitors as well for a former all-pro.
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