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NFL roundup: Expect to see more of David Johnson in 2017

By Brad Weiss

Nov 13, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; San Francisco 49ers linebacker Gerald Hodges (51) tackles Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson (31) during the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 13, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; San Francisco 49ers linebacker Gerald Hodges (51) tackles Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson (31) during the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /
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Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson is one of the best in the NFL, and his role just may expand in 2017.

The Arizona Cardinals had a disappointing 2016 NFL season, just one year removed from playing in the NFC Championship Game. While most of the team struggled with consistency, star running back David Johnson did not, and you can expect more of him in 2017. Head coach Bruce Arians stated on Thursday he is too young to overuse, and would expect 30 carries out of Johnson in his age-25 season.

Cam Newton had successful surgery on Thursday, and he is expected to be under center when the Carolina Panthers kick off their season in September. Newton injured his throwing shoulder in the team’s Week 14 meeting with the then-San Diego Chargers, and struggled down the stretch. Newton led the Panthers to the Super Bowl in 2015, but inconsistent play dogged his team in 2016.

Tyreek Hill had a breakout season for the Kansas City Chiefs, dominating on offense, and in the return game. Head coach Andy Reid expects more from Hill this season, as the speedster participated in only 40 percent of the team’s offensive plays in 2016. Hill came out of nowhere to make it to the Pro Bowl in 2016, and he is going to play a huge part in the Chiefs success going forward.

Brian Cushing and his Houston Texans have won two straight AFC South titles, but that is not the goal anymore. Cushing expects his team to win some playoff games going forward, and he should be back to 100 percent for a Texans defense that was rated No. 1 in the NFL last season. Incredibly, the Texans were able to put together such a successful season without star defensive end J.J. Watt, who hurt his back early in the season and never returned.

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While Watt is currently the top defensive end in the NFL, there could be a man selected next month that may eventually take that crown. Myles Garrett of Texas A&M is the consensus first overall pick in next month’s NFL Draft, and he showed his 40 time at the NFL Scouting Combine was no fluke during his Pro Day Thursday. After running a 4.64 40 at the combine, Garrett ran a 4.62 sprint on Thursday, adding to his legend before he steps foot on an NFL field.

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