The New York Jets inform high-priced Trumaine Johnson that he will be cut this offseason in order to clear more cap space.
The party is over, a statement only true if “party” means “bitterly miserable time.”
The Trumaine Johnson era is, as expected, done.
According to Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News, the New York Jets have informed the cornerback of his immediate future. He will be cut this offseason.
On the third day of the new league year, March 20, Johnson’s $11 million salary becomes fully guaranteed for 2020 if he’s still rostered. Therefore, expect his release to come before that date, a team source informed the Daily News.
Johnson, 30, will go down in Jets history as one of the worst free-agent signings of all-time. In just 17 games over two seasons, Johnson finished with five interceptions, five pass deflections, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, 65 total tackles and a touchdown after signing a massive five-year, $72.5 million deal two offseasons ago (Mike Maccagnan). His performance did not come close to matching his hefty price tag.
The issue comes down to speed. Johnson’s attributes portray more of an NFL safety than corner. Having to provide incredible cushion against most receivers puts the former Los Angeles Rams defensive back at an incredible disadvantage.
Reuniting Gregg Williams with Johnson had some people believe, that, maybe, just maybe, Johnson could pull out a productive 2019 season. Not only did it not happen, but it also failed miserably. Johnson played in just seven games and started just five (thanks to a mixture of poor play and injury).
With or without Trumaine Johnson, Joe Douglas needs cornerbacks. Only the available money to spend on the open market changes with this news.
Audio Version available to members only: Learn more here
