RADIO
One of the biggest surprises of the 2015 season was the reemergence of Arizona Cardinals running back Chris Johnson. Johnson is best known for his days as a Tennessee Titan, an era in which he once rushed for 2,000 yards in a single season. Johnson also spent time with the New York Jets but never really got it going in the Big Apple. Fast forward to 2015, and Chris Johnson was once again a relevant force in the backfield for the Arizona Cardinals. He looked better than he had in years, and his numbers reflected that. Unfortunately for Johnson and the Cardinals, his season is over barring a Super Bowl appearance from the Cardinals thanks to a fractured tibia.
Johnson's replacement is rookie running back David Johnson. The rookie has seen his fair share of playing time this season and has done well with the time he's been given, leading all rookies with eight touchdowns so far this season.
I like Johnson for a few reasons. Firstly, the guy finds the end zone. It's always great to have a guy who has a nose for the end zone, and Johnson appears to be that type of guy. Despite averaging fewer than 10 touches per game, Johnson still has four rushing touchdowns and three receiving touchdowns.
Secondly, Johnson is a powerful runner. At 6'1" and 225 pounds, his big frame is actually the opposite of Chris Johnson, who is 5'11" and 190 pounds and relies mainly on his quickness and agility. Johnson should make for a great weapon in the end zone, as his toughness and ability to fight for extra yardage should help his case.
Lastly, Johnson is a good pass-catching back. He has great hands and enough agility and lateral quickness to find open field. With 19 grabs for 241 yards and three receiving touchdowns, Johnson has proven that he can make big plays catching passes out of the backfield. Carson Palmer will love having a reliable pass catcher coming out of the backfield, something he didn't have much of when Chris Johnson was starting.
If you were fortunate enough to be able to add David Johnson, you should feel confident in him moving forward. He's a talented young player who can make big plays on the ground or through the air. I actually like his matchup this week against a Rams defense that hasn't looked so tough lately. I'm predicting 15 carries for 60 yards, and 6 catches for 80 yards and a touchdown this week.
