NFL Rumors: Cincinnati Bengals want to re-sign Michael Johnson
By Josh Hill
The Cincinnati Bengals handed two defensive linemen massive contracts last season but one of those guys wasn’t defensive end Michael Johnson. After getting hit with the franchise tag in 2013, Johnson is a free agent and bound to see serious offers this March.
While they weren’t willing to work out anything long-term with Johnson before hitting free agency, the Bengals appear willing to go after Johnson in free agency and bring him back at market price.
Per the always interesting Pete Prisco from CBSSports:
"Most expect the Bengals to let defensive end Michael Johnson walk after giving Carlos Dunlap and Geno Atkins big deals last year. But I hear the Bengals will actually try to re-sign Johnson. They felt he played at a high level last season, even if his sack numbers were down. Johnson is good against the run. If he hits the market, he will see a lot of activity."
Johnson is a young and quick pass rusher, which is quickly becoming the wide receiver of the defense in terms of value. Everyone wants speedy receivers and you can’t seem to get enough of them. The same thinking can be applied to defensive ends, and Johnson is the cream of the crop this offseason.