Michael Johnson has been a force on the Cincinnati Bengals defensive line through the first month of this season, as he’s been a constant presence in opponent’s backfield and a terror off the edge.
Needless to say, his presence has helped the Bengals defense ranks among the NFL’s elite, and having him to put pressure on Tom Brady this Sunday will be crucial in defeating the unbeaten New England Patriots.
That is, however, if he is able to suit-up after he suffered a concussion during Sunday’s loss to the Cleveland Browns:
Just filed today's #Bengals injury report. Yep, Michael Johnson has a concussion. Told trainers after Sunday's game he felt symptomatic
— Coley Harvey (@ColeyHarvey) October 2, 2013
You have to believe with a head injury that he will be missing a game or games (plural). Those injuries have no specific timetable
— Coley Harvey (@ColeyHarvey) October 2, 2013
The loss of Johnson would hurt even more with key-reserve Robert Geathers sitting on the Injured Reserve list, which leaves rookie Margus Hunt likely to see a jump in his playing time after being inactive through the first four games.
According to Pro Football Focus, Johnson is second in the NFL among 4-3 DEs in terms of overall rating (+13.6) and quarterback hits ( 7). He also received a 10.0 pass-rusher rating, meaning he pressures the opposing QB in 10% of his pass-rushes.