The Washington Commanders have been busy Monday addressing needs on the offensive line during the NFL’s early tampering period. All free-agent deals cannot be signed until Wednesday, and as we know from J.D. McKissic from last year, players can their minds.
In addition to the Commanders addressing needs on the offensive line, they also retained a key defensive back Monday. Per Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network, Washington agreed to terms with cornerback Danny Johnson on a two-year deal worth up to $7 million with $2.75 million guaranteed.
The #Commanders are re-signing CB Danny Johnson to a two-year deal worth up to $7 million with $2.75M guaranteed, per source.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 13, 2023
The 5-foot-9 Johnson first arrived in Washington as an undrafted free agent from Southern in 2018. Johnson has been cut and assigned to the practice squad multiple times during his five-year career. He has been a standout on special teams, including returning kicks at one point.
Every time Johnson has received a chance on defense, he’s played well. Last season was his best season yet for Washington. He played a lot due to Washington’s trade of William Jackson III and Benjamin St-Juste’s injury after being moved back to outside corner.
Check out this from Sam Fortier from The Washington Post:
Note on Danny Johnson. One of my fav moments from ‘22. W13 at NYG. WSH benched C.Holmes for DJ. NYG went after DJ but he responded (6 TKLs, 2 PBUs, TFL).
Late 4Q. NYG leads 20-13. 3rd & 7 from WSH 47. FG ices it. Jack Del Rio blitzes. DJ comes thru. Punt. WSH forces OT. pic.twitter.com/sQ4SGyYeuG
— Sam Fortier (@Sam4TR) March 13, 2023
Johnson played well in coverage and also is unafraid to stick his nose in the running game.
This does not change Washington’s plans to add a cornerback somewhere in the 2023 NFL draft. Johnson is depth — excellent depth — and it was smart to bring him back.
