NFL preseason 2015: Players with most to prove

Dec 21, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) reacts after an incomplete pass during the third quarter against the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Jets 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 29, 2013; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Michael Johnson (93) sacks Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) during the second quarter at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports /

Cincinnati Bengals – Michael Johnson

Why is he the pick?

Johnson has endured a very interesting rollercoaster of emotions over the last three years. In 2012, Johnson was on the verge of being labeled a bust before he broke out with a career-high 11.5 sacks. The following season was his contract year, and Johnson was underwhelming with only 3.5 sacks. Still, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers doled out a five-year, $43.75 million deal. Yes, this actually happened.

Not shockingly, Johnson put forth a miserable showing with the Buccaneers, racking up four sacks. Incredibly, Johnson was cut after one season and picked up by the Bengals, who signed him to four years and $20 million. Somebody get me his agent. Johnson is going to start as a 4-3 end for Marvin Lewis, and needs to become more productive. Last year, Cincinnati only had 20 sacks the entire season.

What is at stake?

Making the playoffs for a fifth consecutive year. Cincinnati is not going to win 10 games again with only 20 sacks. The Bengals had the luxury of playing the AFC and NFC South divisions, the two worst in the league last year. In 2015, Cincinnati gets the AFC and NFC West, perhaps the two toughest divisions. Johnson must be a difference-maker for this team.

Next: Cleveland Browns

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