With Marcus Williams Justin Simmons and Marcus Maye all getting the franchise tag this offseason, John Johnson stands as arguably the top free-agent safety available. So it should come as no surprise that he’ll have a robust market of teams searching for versatile and talented safeties.
Johnson is coming off arguably the best season of his career, recording one interception and 105 tackles for the Rams. His agent is free to negotiate with other teams as of Monday at 12 p.m. ET, and according to Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports, his market is taking shape.
The Eagles, Lions, Jaguars and Browns are all showing interest in Johnson, according to Jones, though the Rams weren’t mentioned on that list.
Hearing former Rams S John Johnson's free agent market is taking shape. Lions, Eagles, Jags and Browns all showing interest
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) March 15, 2021
No matter where Johnson lands, he’s sure to become one of the highest-paid safeties in the NFL, potentially earning a deal in the range of $14 million per year. He’ll be worth every penny, too, but the Rams probably won’t be able to contend with those offering him more money.
They historically have not re-signed their own defensive backs since Les Snead took over as general manager, and Johnson could be the latest name to join a list that also includes Trumaine Johnson, Janoris Jenkins, Lamarcus Joyner and T.J. McDonald.
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