Browns make smart move and lock up star safety John Johnson

John Johnson III will earn a hefty salary as the newest member of the Cleveland Browns.

One season after breaking the playoff curse, the Cleveland Browns will look to remain in contention for the foreseeable future. General manager Andrew Berry saw the struggles in the secondary and made sure to have it be a priority this offseason.

One position can officially be crossed off his to-do list entering mid-March.

The Browns agree to terms with former Los Angeles Rams safety John Johnson III Monday afternoon, according to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo. The contract is expected to be a three-year deal worth $33.75 million, $24 million of which is guaranteed.

A former third-round pick from Boston College, Johnson thrive over the past three seasons as a member of the Ram secondary. A hybrid defender who can play both free and strong safety, the 25-year-old is coming off his best season in which he recorded 105 total tackles, eight pass deflections and an interception.

For his career, Johnson has recorded 350 total tackles, eight tackles for losses, 32 pass deflections and eight interceptions.

The Browns defense is hopefully set to improve

Johnson’s value of the Browns add versatility on the back end. Last season, second-year cornerback Greedy Williams and rookie Grant Delpit missed the entire season due to injures. The coverage overall was weakened because of it.

Cleveland finished 22nd in pass defense, allowing opponents to average 247.6 yards per game. Despite picking up their first playoff win since 1994, Kevin Stefanski’s defense allowed the Pittsburgh Steelers to record over 500 passing yards in the AFC Wild Card Round.

Should the Browns remain healthy with Delpit and Williams, Cleveland’s secondary should rapidly improve with Johnson playing a perfect balance in Joe Woods’ system . The Browns also still could consider adding another member to the defense with the 26th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft come April 29.