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Fantasy Player Profile

  • AActive
  • Manager: FA
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vs. TEN: #2 vs opposing RB - 18.39 FPA
Bye Week10Rank62% Rostered32.1% Change-0.2WK 17 Pts0.00WK 18 Pts6.60
2021 Fantasy Stats
   PassingRushingReceivingRetMiscFumFantasy
WkOppResultsYdsTDIntYdsTDRecYdsTDTDFumTD2PTLostPts
1JAX
Win, 37-21
---10-3181----11.80
2@CLE
Loss, 21-31
---25-222-----6.70
3CAR
Loss, 9-24
---11--------1.10
4@BUF
Loss, 0-40
---21-327-----7.80
5NE
Loss, 22-25
---5-546-----10.10
6@IND
Loss, 3-31
---7-114----11.10
7@ARI
Loss, 5-31
---25-527-----10.20
8LA
Loss, 22-38
---4-1-1-----1.30
9@MIA
Loss, 9-17
---11-329-----7.00
10Bye  ------------0.00
11@TEN
Win, 22-13
---18-316-----6.40
12NYJ
Loss, 14-21
---39-216-----7.50
13IND
Loss, 0-31
------------0.00
14SEA
Loss, 13-33
------------0.00
15@JAX
Win, 30-16
---24-13-----3.70
16LAC
Win, 41-29
------------0.00
17@SF
Loss, 7-23
------------0.00
18TEN
Loss, 25-28
---28-38-----6.60
2021 Fantasy Stats
  RushingReceivingFumFantasy
WkOppYdsTDYdsTDLostPts
1JAX,
W 37-21
10-181-11.80
2@CLE,
L 21-31
25-22--6.70
3CAR,
L 9-24
11----1.10
4@BUF,
L 0-40
21-27--7.80
5NE,
L 22-25
5-46--10.10
6@IND,
L 3-31
7-14-11.10
7@ARI,
L 5-31
25-27--10.20
8LA,
L 22-38
4--1--1.30
9@MIA,
L 9-17
11-29--7.00
10Bye-----0.00
11@TEN,
W 22-13
18-16--6.40
12NYJ,
L 14-21
39-16--7.50
13IND,
L 0-31
-----0.00
14SEA,
L 13-33
-----0.00
15@JAX,
W 30-16
24-3--3.70
16LAC,
W 41-29
-----0.00
17@SF,
L 7-23
-----0.00
18TEN,
L 25-28
28-8--6.60
  • 111.80
  • 26.70
  • 31.10
  • 47.80
  • 510.10
  • 61.10
  • 710.20
  • 81.30
  • 97.00
  • 10
  • 116.40
  • 127.50
  • 13
  • 14
  • 153.70
  • 16
  • 17
  • 186.60
Fantasy Points
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  6. 6
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  10. 10 Bye
  11. 11
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  13. 13
  14. 14
  15. 15
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  18. 18

News

  • Eight touches in season finale

    Johnson had five carries for 28 yards and caught three of four targets for eight yards in Sunday's 28-25 loss to Tennessee.

    Analysis: Johnson had missed four of the previous five games due to a quad injury and stints on the reserve/COVID-19 list. He played 17 snaps, well behind Rex Burkhead, who emerged as the team's top back over the second half of the season. When healthy, Johnson was the team's third-down back, and he finished with 32 catches on 42 targets for 225 yards and a touchdown. As a runner, he carried 67 times for 228 yards without a touchdown. He will enter the offseason as an unrestricted free agent, and it's…read more

    Published: Mon, Jan 10 at 7:11pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Off COVID list

    Houston activated Johnson (illness) off the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday.

    Analysis: Johnson was previously dealing with a quadriceps issue before landing on the reserve/COVID-19 list Dec. 27, but he wasn't listed on Wednesday's estimated practice report with an injury. As a result, Johnson is on track to play in Sunday's season finale against the Titans, but he may have to play second fiddle to Rex Burkhead, who has averaged 5.2 yards per carry on 38 totes over the past two weeks. Royce Freeman is also on the roster as a depth option.

    Published: Wed, Jan 5 at 2:13pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Remains on COVID list

    Johnson (quad) remains on the reserve/COVID-19 list ahead of Sunday's game against the 49ers.

    Analysis: Until Johnson, who had previously been dealing with a quad issue, clears the NFL's COVID protocols, Rex Burkhead is in line to continue to head the Texans' rushing attack, with Royce Freeman also in the mix to log complementary touches out of the team's backfield and Jaylen Samuels available in reserve.

    Published: Sat, Jan 1 at 4:50pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Added to COVID-19 list

    The Texans placed Johnson (quadriceps) on the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday.

    Analysis: According to Brooks Kubena of the Houston Chronicle, Johnson landed on the reserve/COVID-19 list ahead of the Texans' Week 14 loss to the Seahawks, but he quickly was cleared to return to the roster after his initial test result was deemed a false positive. Johnson appears to have a true positive test this time around, which could make it a challenge for him to gain clearance ahead of Sunday's game against the 49ers. Johnson already sat out the Texans' Week 16 win over the Chargers due to a…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 27 at 1:32pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Sidelined for Week 16

    Johnson (quadriceps) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Chargers.

    Analysis: Despite not practicing all week due to the quad issue, Johnson was listed as questionable heading into Sunday, though the Texans never had much optimism he would suit up. With Johnson out of the mix, Houston is left with Rex Burkhead, Royce Freeman and Jaylen Samuels as its options out of the backfield. Burkhead is the leading candidate to pace the Houston backs in touches and snaps.

    Published: Sun, Dec 26 at 8:42am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Iffy for Week 16

    Johnson (quad) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Chargers after not practicing this week, Sarah Barshop of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Per Aaron Wilson of Sportstalk 790 Houston, despite the official 'questionable' designation, Johnson isn't expected to play in Sunday's 1:00 p.m. ET contest. If that's the case, Rex Burkhead and Royce Freeman would be in line to head the Texans' Week 16 backfield.

    Published: Fri, Dec 24 at 2:32pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Misses another practice

    Johnson (quad) remained sidelined at practice Thursday.

    Analysis: Back-to-back listed absences Wednesday and Thursday set the stage for what Johnson is able to do Friday to be pivotal with regard to his chances of suiting up Sunday against the Chargers. If he's out or limited this weekend, added Week 16 opportunities would be available for Rex Burkhead and Royce Freeman.

    Published: Thu, Dec 23 at 3:28pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Dealing with quad issue

    Johnson was listed as a non-participant in Wednesday's walk-through practice due to a quadriceps injury.

    Analysis: Head coach David Culley relayed earlier Wednesday that Johnson picked up the injury during the Texans' Week 15 win over the Jaguars. Johnson now has two more chances to get on the practice field prior to Sunday's game against the Chargers, but even if he gets the green light to play, he could be part of a timeshare out of the backfield with Rex Burkhead.

    Published: Wed, Dec 22 at 2:41pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Missing practice Wednesday

    Johnson, who suffered an unspecified injury during Sunday's win over the Jaguars, isn't slated to practice Wednesday, Aaron Wilson of Sportstalk 790 Houston reports.

    Analysis: The injury explains why Johnson logged just six carries Week 15, despite starting in a game that Houston controlled throughout. Rex Burkhead led the way with 16 rushing attempts and would be in line to lead the backfield again if Johnson ends up sitting out Sunday against the Chargers.

    Published: Wed, Dec 22 at 9:46am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Logs seven touches in win

    Johnson had six carries for 24 yards and caught his lone target for three yards in Sunday's 30-16 win over Jacksonville.

    Analysis: Johnson returned to the field after missing one game while on the reserve/COVID-19 list. He played just 12 snaps, second amongst running backs behind Rex Burkhead's 38. The Texans don't have a developmental RB to groom, so veterans like Johnson and Burkhead should play out the season. If Scottie Phillips (ankle) gets healthy enough, he could steal snaps and touches from either one.

    Published: Mon, Dec 20 at 3:42am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Could be joined by Burkhead

    Johnson could have some unexpected competition in the backfield with Rex Burkhead (hip) listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Jaguars, Brooks Kubena of The Houston Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: Head coach David Culley apparently got ahead of himself earlier this week when he said Burkhead wouldn't play. The veteran back is now listed as questionable, potentially setting up a three-way committee between him, Johnson and Royce Freeman. There's also still a decent chance Burkhead sits out, in which case Johnson would retain his fantasy appeal for Week 15. It becomes far less appealing with Burkhead involved, even in the favorable matchup.

    Published: Fri, Dec 17 at 4:20pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Tabbed as lead back this week

    Head coach David Culley announced Wednesday that Johnson will be the Texans' primary running back this Sunday against the Jaguars, Aaron Wilson of Sportstalk 790 AM Houston reports.

    Analysis: With Rex Burkhead (hip) ruled out for Week 15 and special teamer Scottie Phillips (ankle) still on injured reserve, the Texans are left with Johnson, Royce Freeman and practice-squad player Darius Jackson as backfield options for the Week 15 clash between AFC South basement dwellers. Johnson missed Week 13 with flu-like symptoms and a thigh injury and then sat out Week 14 due to a brief stint on the reserve/COVID-19 list, but he seems to be healthy as the Texans begin practicing for Week 15.

    Published: Wed, Dec 15 at 10:30am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Cleared from COVID-19 list

    The Texans activated Johnson from the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday.

    Analysis: Though he didn't carry a designation into the past weekend after a one-game absence due to an illness and a thigh injury, Johnson was ruled out less than two hours prior to Sunday's eventual 33-13 loss to Seattle after he was placed on the list. Johnson's activation just one day later suggests that his placement on the list may have been the result of a false positive test, but in any case, he's on track to make his return to the lineup Week 15 in Jacksonville. Johnson could be in store for a…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 13 at 1:48pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Placed on COVID list, out Sunday

    Johnson (undisclosed) has been placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list by the Texans.

    Analysis: With Johnson unavailable for Sunday's game against the Seahawks, the Texans' Week 14 backfield duties are slated to be handled by Rex Burkhead and Royce Freeman.

    Published: Sun, Dec 12 at 8:38am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Returns to full practice

    Johnson (illness/thigh) practiced fully Wednesday.

    Analysis: Johnson was inactive for this past Sunday's 31-0 loss to the Colts after not practicing leading up to the contest, but his full session Wednesday paves the way for him to rejoin the lineup this weekend against the Seahawks. In his looming return to action, Johnson figures to re-enter a timeshare with Rex Burkhead, with Royce Freeman a candidate to mix in behind them. In that context, Johnson -- who ran 23 times for 57 yards and caught five of his seven targets for 32 yards over his last two…read more

    Published: Wed, Dec 8 at 5:26pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Inactive Sunday

    Johnson (illness/thigh) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Colts.

    Analysis: With Johnson inactive, Rex Burkhead, Royce Freeman and Jaylen Samuels (elevated from the practice squad Saturday) are available to handle the Texans' Week 13 backfield duties. In that context, Aaron Wilson of Sportstalk 790 Houston suggests that Burkhead will work as the team's primary back Sunday, with Freeman -- who started the season with Carolina -- poised to see his first touches on offense in a Houston uniform.

    Published: Sun, Dec 5 at 8:40am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not expected to play

    Johnson (illness/thigh), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Colts, is unlikely to play, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Johnson didn't practice in any fashion this week while battling flu symptoms and a thigh injury, leaving the Texans pessimistic that he'll be ready to suit up Sunday. Officially confirmation on Johnson's status will arrive 90 minutes prior to the 1 p.m. ET kickoff, when the Texans release their inactive list. If Johnson is in fact out, Rex Burkhead would likely pick up additional work as the clear top option in the Houston backfield.

    Published: Sat, Dec 4 at 9:01pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Uncertain for Sunday

    Johnson (illness/thigh) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Colts.

    Analysis: Though the questionable tag implies a player has a 50-50 shot at playing come game day, Johnson's inability to practice in any fashion Wednesday through Friday isn't a promising sign that he'll suit up. A final call on Johnson's status will come when the Texans unveil their inactive list 90 minutes prior to Sunday's 1 p.m. ET kickoff. In Houston's first game without both Mark Ingram (traded to New Orleans) and Phillip Lindsay (waived), Johnson (10 carries, three targets) and Rex Burkhead (12…read more

    Published: Fri, Dec 3 at 1:12pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not seen at practice

    Johnson (illness/thigh) wasn't spotted at practice Friday, Aaron Wilson of Sportstalk 790 Houston reports.

    Analysis: The Texans' final Week 13 injury report will be released later Friday and should lend some clarity with regard to the running back's status for Sunday's game against the Colts. If Johnson is ruled out this weekend, Rex Burkhead would likely lead the Houston backfield, with Royce Freeman next in line for work behind him.

    Published: Fri, Dec 3 at 11:01am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Absent from practice

    Johnson (illness/thigh) isn't practicing Thursday, Aaron Wilson of Sportstalk 790 Houston reports.

    Analysis: Johnson is one of several Texans that will go down as a non-participant on Thursday's practice report due to an illness, though all reports to date have suggested that it isn't a team-wide COVID-19 outbreak. In any case, Johnson, who also picked up a thigh injury during Sunday's loss to the Jets, may need to get back on the practice field Friday as a limited participant to have a realistic shot at playing this weekend against the Colts. If cleared for that contest, Johnson would presumably be…read more

    Published: Thu, Dec 2 at 11:06am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • DNP due to illness, thigh injury

    Johnson was listed as a non-participant on Wednesday's estimated practice report due to an illness and a thigh injury.

    Analysis: Brooks Kubena of the Houston Chronicle notes that the Texans elected not to hold a practice Wednesday with several players (including Johnson) feeling under the weather. Per Aaron Wilson of Sportstalk 790 Houston, the running back visited the medical tent in Sunday's loss to the Jets after limping off the field, but he was able to return to the game. A return to practice in any capacity Thursday would put him on track to move past both the illness and thigh injury in advance of this weekend's…read more

    Published: Wed, Dec 1 at 2:09pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Racks up 12 touches in loss

    Johnson rushed 10 times for 39 yards and caught two of three targets for 16 yards in Sunday's 21-14 loss to the Jets.

    Analysis: Johnson got 12 touches to Rex Burkhead's 15, and the latter racked up 54 scrimmage yards compared to the former's 55. Johnson limped to the blue medical tent at one point but returned without issue, per NFL reporter Aaron Wilson. Considering the Jets entered the game as the league's most generous defense to running backs, matching even this output will be an uphill battle for Johnson in Week 13 against the Colts.

    Published: Sun, Nov 28 at 3:26pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Stymied on ground

    Johnson carried the ball 13 times for 18 yards in Sunday's 22-13 win over Tennessee. He added three receptions on four targets for 16 yards.

    Analysis: The Texans narrowed their backfield usage to Johnson and Rex Burkhead, with Burkhead leading the way in terms of both touches and production. Even so, Johnson saw a season-high 13 carries -- the first time he received double-digit rush attempts in a game -- thanks in large part to a surprisingly positive game script. Despite the increased opportunity, Johnson averaged only 1.4 yards per carry. He found a bit more production as a receiver, and he's now managed multiple receptions in seven of…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 21 at 5:21pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Posts 40 total yards in loss

    Johnson rushed four times for 11 yards and secured three of five targets for 29 yards in the Texans' 17-9 loss to the Dolphins on Sunday.

    Analysis: Johnson saw backfield mate Phillip Lindsay double him up in carries, but he at least enjoyed a solid role as a pass catcher while his teammate wasn't targeted once. Johnson could well continue to work more as receiver than rusher, which may actually be a more fruitful path to fantasy production for him considering game script often turns against the run in the Texans' games due to their porous defense. Johnson will have a chance to try to build on his role in a Week 11 road matchup against the…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 7 at 4:23pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Has season-low snap count

    Johnson had two carries for four yards and caught his lone target for minus-1 yard in Sunday's 38-22 loss to the Rams.

    Analysis: Johnson (11 snaps) and Phillip Lindsay (eight) were expected to have elevated backfield roles following the trade of Mark Ingram, but that never materialized. Instead, Rex Burkhead rose to the top with 30 snaps, four targets and a touchdown. And to some extent, Scottie Phillips (15 snaps) got a bump as well. It's unclear how the game circumstances impacted the workload distribution, but to date, Johnson had received a consistent 25-30 snaps and played a significant role when Houston had fallen…read more

    Published: Mon, Nov 1 at 6:37am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • More work likely on tap

    Johnson is expected to pick up added snaps and touches moving forward after the Texans traded Mark Ingram to the Saints on Wednesday, Brooks Kubena of the Houston Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: Phillip Lindsay is also a candidate to see more work with Ingram out of the backfield mix. Houston head coach David Culley hasn't detailed how the team intends to redistribute Ingram's workload; through seven weeks, Ingram led the team with 92 carries for 294 yards and a touchdown. Meanwhile, Johnson logged 27 carries for 104 yards, and Lindsay ran 38 times for 97 yards and a score. Johnson was already the team's primary pass-catching back and thus on the PPR radar in deeper leagues, so any…read more

    Published: Wed, Oct 27 at 3:18pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Ekes out solid numbers Sunday

    Johnson carried the ball seven times for 25 yards and caught five of six targets for 27 yards in Sunday's 31-5 loss to the Cardinals.

    Analysis: The Texans managed only 160 yards of total offense in the rout, but Johnson managed to provide nearly a third of them. The scrimmage yards were a season high for the veteran running back, but Houston's offense as a whole could find a little more life once Tyrod Taylor (hamstring) reclaims the starting QB job from rookie Davis Mills, something which could happen as soon as Week 8 against the Rams.

    Published: Sun, Oct 24 at 7:28pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Just three touches in Week 6

    Johnson rushed twice for seven yards and caught one of two targets for 14 yards in Sunday's 31-3 loss to Indianapolis. He also lost a fumble.

    Analysis: Despite another negative game script, the Texans chose to commit to Mark Ingram (18 carries for 73 yards) on the ground as opposed to utilizing Johnson's receiving skills out of the backfield. With an inconsistent role in an offense that's failed to crack double-digit points in three of its last four games, Johnson will be tough to trust in Week 7 against the Cardinals and beyond.

    Published: Sun, Oct 17 at 3:30pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Leads backs in snaps

    Johnson gained five yards on two carries and caught five of six targets for 46 yards in Sunday's 25-22 loss to New England.

    Analysis: Johnson's 51 combined yards were a season high for the running back, who's carved out a legitimate role on passing downs, and he led Houston running backs Sunday with 31 snaps. Due to the team's poor record, it's needed a receiving threat in the backfield more often than not, so Johnson leads the position group in snaps and is second overall on the team with 16 targets, behind only Brandin Cooks (44).

    Published: Mon, Oct 11 at 6:51am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Stays involved as receiver

    Johnson recorded five rushes for 21 yards in Sunday's Week 4 loss to the Bills. He added three receptions on four targets for 27 yards.

    Analysis: Johnson nearly equaled Mark Ingram in carries, though Johnson out-touched Ingram thanks to his work as a receiver. The Texans' overall offensive struggles have capped individual player performances this season, and Johnson is no exception. He has yet to surpass 25 yards on the ground in a single game and has not broken 30 receiving yards despite logging multiple receptions in all but one contest this season. A matchup against New England in Week 5 isn't likely to do Johnson or the Texans'…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 3 at 9:20pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Minimal role in Week 3 loss

    Johnson rushed twice for 11 yards and did not draw a target in the Texans' 24-9 loss to the Panthers on Thursday night.

    Analysis: Johnson's modest role on the ground continued Thursday, and this time, he wasn't able to prop up his final numbers with some work in the passing game. The veteran back looks likely to be relegated to a primary pass-catching role in most contests, especially with backfield mates Mark Ingram and Phillip Lindsay outpacing him by four and five carries, respectively, Thursday.

    Published: Thu, Sep 23 at 8:47pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Garners 47 total yards in loss

    Johnson rushed six times for 25 yards and secured both targets for 22 yards in the Texans' 31-21 loss to the Browns on Sunday.

    Analysis: The veteran was second on the team in carries behind Mark Ingram but only outpaced No. 3 option Phillip Lindsay by one tote. Johnson's work in the passing game was solid, but as long as all three of the veterans are at full health, each will likely have a difficult time putting together noteworthy individual performances. Through two games, Johnson looks to be competing with Lindsay for pass-catching duties out of the backfield as opposed to challenging Ingram for carries, but that naturally…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 19 at 2:44pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Produces as receiver

    Johnson carried the ball three times for 10 yards in Sunday's Week 1 win over the Jaguars. He added three receptions for 18 yards and a touchdown.

    Analysis: Johnson rotated with Phillip Lindsay as the team's second back, with both playing behind Mark Ingram. While Lindsay got more work on the ground, Johnson found his primary role as a receiver. His longest catch of the day went for nine yards, but he found the end zone on a seven-yard reception to put the Texans up 14-0 late in the first quarter. While Johnson's trip to the end zone aided his final line, the Texans appear content to rely on Ingram as the leader of the backfield heading into a Week…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 12 at 5:19pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Provides explosive play

    Johnson carried the ball four times for 30 yards in Saturday's preseason game against Tampa Bay.

    Analysis: Johnson entered the game on the team's second possession behind Phillip Lindsay. He shared the drive with Mark Ingram, though Johnson proved to be more explosive by ripping of a 21-yard gain. Johnson was listed third on the team's depth chart during training camp, and some beat reports have suggested he may serve as the team's third-down back. However, Houston has among the most fluid roles among skill-position players around the league. That leaves it somewhat unclear exactly what type of…read more

    Published: Sat, Aug 28 at 11:02pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Nearly invisible Saturday

    Johnson did not receive a carry and failed to catch his only target in Saturday's win over the Cowboys.

    Analysis: The Texans used all three of Mark Ingram, Phillip Lindsay and Johnson in the first quarter before removing their starters, but it was the first two who saw most of the action, leaving only third-down scraps for DJ. This is shaping up to be a true backfield committee during the regular season, which would put a very firm ceiling on Johnson's fantasy value. Despite his apparent role as the primary pass-catching option among the trio, he may not see enough snaps to even be an asset in many PPR…read more

    Published: Sun, Aug 22 at 4:16am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Usage suggests third-down back

    Johnson could be the Texans' third-down back, Aaron Reiss of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: It would be foolish to make any definitive statements about the regular season based on a team's first preseason game, but when the first-team offense was on the field in Saturday's preseason opener, Johnson entered the game on third downs. His lone carry was a third-down run in the red zone. The early downs were handled by Phillip Lindsay. And none of this factors in the potential role of Mark Ingram, who did not play Saturday, which is treatment befitting a starting running back and suggests…read more

    Published: Tue, Aug 17 at 6:01am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Barely used in preseason opener

    Johnson lost one yard on his only carry during Saturday's preseason win over the Packers.

    Analysis: Normally, when an established veteran doesn't get a lot of work in a team's first preseason game, there's no cause for alarm. That may not be the case with Johnson. He was listed third on the Texans' initial depth chart behind offseason additions Mark Ingram and Phillip Lindsay, and it was the latter two who were treated like starters Saturday -- Lindsay got Houston's first touch, while Ingram got the night off completely. Johnson did see his one carry in the red zone on the team's opening…read more

    Published: Sun, Aug 15 at 6:00am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Listed behind Ingram and Lindsay

    The Texans' initial unofficial depth chart lists Johnson behind Mark Ingram and Phillip Lindsay, Brooks Kubena of the Houston Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: That said, given the success that all three backs have had at the NFL level at various points in their careers, Houston's backfield could turn into a committee situation in which the weekly workload is determined by a hot-hand or matchup-based approach. While that's less than ideal from a fantasy perspective, a run-heavy attack out of the gate this season is plausible if Tyrod Taylor serves as the team's starting quarterback.

    Published: Wed, Aug 11 at 2:26pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Facing veteran competition

    Johnson is joined in the Houston backfield by fellow veterans Phillip Lindsay, Mark Ingram and Rex Burkhead, Sarah Barshop of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Johnson, Lindsay and Ingram all have experience in lead roles, while Burkhead is a versatile reserve who has never taken more than 74 carries in a season. Though he was a mediocre performer in his first season for Houston, Johnson remains the favorite to lead their backfield in 2021, in part due to a $4.25 million guarantee on his $6 million salary. Lindsay, Ingram and Burkhead all settled for smaller deals this offseason, with the latter two potentially even facing battles for roster spots…read more

    Published: Wed, Jul 7 at 12:31pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Agrees to reduce salary

    Johnson has agreed to restructure his contract, which now will have $4.25 million guaranteed out of a potential $6 million in 2021 compensation, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Prior to the new arrangement, Johnson was scheduled for a $7.95 million base salary, including $2.1 million guaranteed. The first number goes down and the second up, with player and team reaching an agreement to keep Johnson in Houston for the final year of his lucrative contract. Now that that's settled, the Texans can figure out the rest of their roster, starting with the tumultuous Deshaun Watson situation. Johnson's team context will go from bad to worse if the Texans don't have the star QB…read more

    Published: Tue, Mar 2 at 12:09pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Still wanted by Houston

    The Texans hope to retain Johnson for 2021, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: Johnson put together a fairly solid inaugural campaign in Houston, with 1,005 scrimmage yards and eight total touchdowns, but he was also limited to 12 appearances due to injuries. The 29-year-old carries an $8.8 million cap hit for 2021, per Spotrac.com, a figure which Wilson notes the Texans want to bring down. Johnson only carries a $2.1 million dead cap figure, so if he's unwilling to agree on a restructured contract the team could cut him without much penalty, as happened to former…read more

    Published: Fri, Feb 26 at 10:18am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Ends season on high note

    Johnson carried the ball 14 times for 84 yards and a touchdown and caught three of five targets for 36 yards in Sunday's 41-38 loss to the Titans.

    Analysis: While the circumstances of his arrival in Houston, as part of Bill O'Brien's last ill-advised trade, were less than ideal, Johnson put together a solid 2020 campaign when he was healthy, amassing 1,005 scrimmage yards and eight TDs (six rushing, two receiving) in 12 games. With one more season left on his current contract, Johnson could well find himself back with the Texans next year, but he would also carry a small dead cap hit of $2.1 million if the team's new regime decides to move in a…read more

    Published: Sun, Jan 3 at 7:38pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Another remarkable effort in loss

    Johnson rushed 12 times for 128 yards and a touchdown and secured all three of his targets for 11 yards and another score in the Texans' 37-31 loss to the Bengals on Sunday.

    Analysis: A week after racking up 11 receptions in a loss to the Colts, Johnson stood out for his work on the ground Sunday with a highly efficient performance highlighted by a 48-yard run. Johnson had yet to cross the 100-yard mark on the ground as a Texan until Sunday, and his receiving touchdown was his first since Week 7. Johnson will look to put together another strong game to cap off his first season in Houston against the vulnerable Titans defense in the Week 17 finale.

    Published: Sun, Dec 27 at 1:54pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Heavily utilized as receiver

    Johnson carried the ball eight times for 27 yards in Week 15 against the Colts. He added 11 receptions for 106 yards as a receiver.

    Analysis: Johnson returned from a one-game absence and had a huge role in the backfield with both Duke Johnson (neck) and C.J. Prosise (ankle) inactive. While he was mostly held in check as a runner, he was a regular checkdown option for Deshaun Watson as a receiver. Most of his production came as a result of volume, though he did turn in receptions of 31 and 26 yards to highlight his effort. Johnson could be in line for big volume once again in Week 16 against Cincinnati if the team's backfield remains…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 20 at 2:00pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Logs full practice

    Johnson (not injury related) practiced fully Thursday.

    Analysis: While he appears on track to suit up Sunday against the Colts, both Duke Johnson (neck) and C.J. Prosise (ankle) sat out Thursday's session. With Houston's backfield depth options in Week 15 unclear at this stage, it looks like David Johnson is poised to reclaim his role as the team's lead back versus Indy.

    Published: Thu, Dec 17 at 2:05pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Back from COVID-19 list

    The Texans activated Johnson (undisclosed) from the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: Johnson was forced to sit out last weekend's loss to the Bears, but he'll be eligible to return to action in Indianapolis on Sunday. He'll likely take back a starting role out of the backfield, as per usual, but it's worth keeping in mind that Johnson has only surpassed 50 rushing yards four times this season.

    Published: Wed, Dec 16 at 2:09pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Returns to team

    Johnson (reserve/COVID-19 list) is present at the Texans' team facility Wednesday, but he won't take part in the team's first practice of Week 15, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: While the report notes that Johnson didn't test positive for COVID-19 after landing on the list last week and sitting out the Texans' loss to the Bears, he'll still be eased into the mix due to the time he missed. Johnson is expected to be reinstated from the list soon, and if he's back at practice Thursday, he'll likely be in line to reclaim his starting role from Duke Johnson this weekend against the Colts.

    Published: Wed, Dec 16 at 8:50am by Rotowire.com
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  • Expected back next week

    Interim coach Romeo Crennel relayed that Johnson landed on the COVID-19 list as a close contact and is expected to return to action in Week 15, Aaron Reiss of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: In his absence in Sunday's 36-7 loss to the Bears, Duke Johnson, Buddy Howell and C.J. Prosise handled Houston's RB duties. None of the trio did enough to supplant David Johnson as the team's starter, and assuming he's activated in the coming days, he should head the team's backfield next weekend against the Colts.

    Published: Sun, Dec 13 at 2:00pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Lands on COVID-19 list

    Johnson (illness) has been placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list.

    Analysis: The running back thus is in line to miss Sunday's game against the Bears, which sets the stage for Duke Johnson to head the Texans' Week 14 backfield.

    Published: Fri, Dec 11 at 1:06pm by Rotowire.com
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  • May miss Week 14

    Interim head coach Romeo Crennel said Friday that there's "a possibility" Johnson (personal) won't be available for Sunday's game against the Bears, Drew Dougherty of the Texans' official site reports.

    Analysis: Johnson missed Thursday's practice due to a personal issue, and it sounds like another missed session Friday would jeopardize his status for Week 14. Given the undisclosed nature of Johnson's absence, it's difficult to estimate when a final call on his availability will arrive. If he were to miss Sunday's game against the Bears, Duke Johnson would stand to start out of the backfield.

    Published: Fri, Dec 11 at 8:39am by Rotowire.com
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  • Role set to expand

    Texans interim head coach Romeo Crennel hinted that Johnson would see an expanded role on offense in Sunday's game against the Bears, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reports. " He had a couple of nice runs in the [Texans' Week 13 loss to the Colts] and I think that next week, he'll probably have more [snaps] than he had this week," Crennel said of Johnson. "I think he's still a good football player for us."

    Analysis: Back in action after missing the previous three games with a concussion, Johnson was limited to a 58 percent snap share against Indianapolis, representing his second-lightest usage rate for any game this season that he finished healthy. Crennel suggested that he wanted to ease Johnson back in after a nearly month-long absence, but the 28-year-old now looks primed to see his involvement grow after coming out of the Week 13 contest healthy. In addition to likely picking up double-digit carries…read more

    Published: Tue, Dec 8 at 12:56pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Finds end zone in return

    Johnson (concussion) carried 10 times for 44 yards and a touchdown while failing to bring in either of his two targets during Sunday's 26-20 loss to the Colts.

    Analysis: Making his return from a three-game absence, Johnson managed 4.4 yards per carry against a tough defensive unit and scored a six-yard rushing touchdown in the second quarter. He was hardly a factor in the passing game, but it's probable the team intended to ease him back into the lineup while letting Duke Johnson handle that department. Assuming Johnson emerges without any setbacks, he should be in line to handle a larger load next Sunday against the Bears.

    Published: Sun, Dec 6 at 1:39pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Set to play Sunday

    Johnson (concussion) was activated off injured reserve Saturday, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: This is hardly surprising considering Johnson is expected to play in Sunday's divisional contest with the Colts. The suspension of Will Fuller could open the door for Duke Johnson, who operated as the main bellcow in David Johnson's three game absence, to be a marginal factor in the passing game, but expect the former Cardinals back to reassert himself as the team's primary option out of the backfield once more.

    Published: Sat, Dec 5 at 9:16am by Rotowire.com
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  • On track to play Sunday

    Johnson (concussion) is on track to play Sunday against the Colts, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: Johnson will need to be activated from IR before returning, but that is expected to happen barring a setback. He was operating as Houston's lead back prior to sustaining his concussion Week 9, and David's return likely will push Duke Johnson back to a change-of-pace role Sunday.

    Published: Fri, Dec 4 at 10:07am by Rotowire.com
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  • Making good progress

    Texans offensive coordinator Tim Kelly suggested that Johnson (concussion) has looked good since rejoining the team for practice Wednesday, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reports. "He's done a good job. Look forward to working him back in the mix," Kelly said of Johnson.

    Analysis: Kelly didn't go as far as saying that Johnson would be reinstated from injured reserve ahead of Sunday's game against the Colts, but the 28-year-old is seemingly on track to be added back to the 53-man roster. A decision on Johnson's Week 13 status will likely hinge on him clearing the NFL's five-step concussion protocol, though his involvement in practice would seemingly imply that he merely needs to get approval from an independent neurologist in order to play. If activated this weekend,…read more

    Published: Thu, Dec 3 at 2:14pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Cleared to practice

    The Texans designated Johnson (concussion) to return from injured reserve Wednesday, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: The transaction opens up a 21-day window for the Texans to evaluate Johnson for a return to the 53-man roster. If the running back is cleared to play in time for Sunday's game against the Colts, he would presumably reclaim his role as Houston's top back, while Duke Johnson would move back into his previous change-of-pace role.

    Published: Wed, Dec 2 at 2:30pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Lands on IR

    Johnson (concussion) has been placed on injured reserve, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Johnson will now be sidelined a minimum of three weeks. His absence means that Duke Johnson will be the team's lead back for the immediate future. The 28-year-old will now focus on his recovery. His next chance to potentially return will be Dec. 6 against the Colts.

    Published: Sat, Nov 14 at 11:19am by Rotowire.com
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  • Ruled out this week

    Johnson (concussion) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Browns.

    Analysis: The running back wasn't able to practice all week and thus will target a potential return to action Week 11 versus the Patriots. In his absence this Sunday, Duke Johnson is in line to head the Texans' running attack.

    Published: Fri, Nov 13 at 1:37pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not looking good for Sunday

    Johnson (concussion) is not practicing Thursday and is expected to miss Sunday's game in Cleveland, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: Johnson suffered a concussion during last weekend's win over the Jaguars, and he hasn't yet returned to the practice field. While the veteran running back hasn't yet been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Browns, his chances of gaining full medical clearance in time to suit up are looking increasingly slim. If he's indeed unable to go, Duke Johnson would be the clear favorite to start for Houston after seeing a career-high 20 touches versus Jacksonville.

    Published: Thu, Nov 12 at 11:17am by Rotowire.com
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  • Not ready to practice

    Texans head coach Romeo Crennel said Johnson (concussion) won't be available to practice Wednesday, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: Johnson exited the Texans' Week 9 win over the Jaguars with the head injury and doesn't seem to have made any notable progress through the NFL's concussion protocol three days later. Typically, a concussed player's absence from practice to begin the week doesn't bode well for his chances of gaining clearance for game day, so Johnson looks to be in serious danger of sitting out Sunday's contest in Cleveland. If Johnson is inactive this weekend, Duke Johnson would likely be in store for a…read more

    Published: Wed, Nov 11 at 7:20am by Rotowire.com
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  • Concussion confirmed

    Johnson won't return to Sunday's game against the Jaguars after suffering a concussion.

    Analysis: Prior to his exit from the contest, he recorded two carries for 16 yards. In his absence Sunday, Duke Johnson has taken over as the Texans' lead running back.

    Published: Sun, Nov 8 at 11:25am by Rotowire.com
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  • Possible concussion

    Johnson is being evaluated for a possible concussion Sunday against the Jaguars.

    Analysis: Next up for the Texans' carries should he not return to the contest is Duke Johnson. Prior to his exit Sunday, David Johnson logged two carries for 16 yards.

    Published: Sun, Nov 8 at 10:36am by Rotowire.com
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  • Facing poor rush defense Week 9

    Johnson faces the 28th-ranked rushing defense Week 9 on the road against Jacksonville.

    Analysis: Johnson and the Texans are last in the league in rushing offense (84.9 YPG), but they get a break Week 9. The Jaguars cede 142.6 yards per game, and it was against them that Johnson had his best game of the season. In Houston's lone victory of the 2020 season, Johnson rushed for a season-high 96 yards on 17 carries, while the team had its best rushing day with 129 yards.

    Published: Sat, Nov 7 at 2:25am by Rotowire.com
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  • Productive as receiver

    Johnson carried the ball 14 times for 42 yards in Week 7 against the Packers. He added four receptions for 42 yards and a touchdown.

    Analysis: Johnson wasn't able to get much going on the ground, averaging just 3.0 yards per rush. He did show some explosiveness on a 13-yard carry late in the third quarter but did most of his damage as a receiver. Notably, Johnson hauled in passes of 16 and 15 yards while also finding the end zone on a three-yard catch. Though he has yet to reach 100 yards on the ground this season, Johnson has gotten a consistent workload and has recorded four touchdowns in seven contests to this point. He and the…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 25 at 3:56pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Finds paydirt in high-scoring loss

    Johnson rushed 19 times for 57 yards and a touchdown while catching one of two targets for 12 yards in Sunday's 42-36 overtime loss to Tennessee.

    Analysis: Johnson's one-yard rushing score with 6:15 left in the third quarter was the first of four second-half touchdowns scored by the Texans, but Houston still came up short in the high-scoring affair. The veteran running back has carved out a high floor as the primary option in Houston's backfield, topping 90 scrimmage yards or finding the end zone in all but one of the team's first six games. Houston's brutally difficult early season schedule continues with the Packers coming to town in Week 7.

    Published: Sun, Oct 18 at 2:28pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Tops 100 total yards

    Johnson carried the ball 17 times for 96 yards in Week 5 against Jacksonville. He added two receptions for seven yards.

    Analysis: Johnson had his most productive day on the ground from a yardage perspective, falling just short of the century mark. That production was a bit deceptive as Johnson managed a 29-yard gain -- his longest of the day -- on the second-to-last play of the contest. Still, he dominated usage out of the backfield, accounting for 17 of the team's 22 total rushing attempts. Johnson remains a viable producer based on his volume alone, logging 400 total yards through five contests. He'll draw a more…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 11 at 3:24pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Held in check by Vikings

    Johnson registered 63 rushing yards on 16 carries, also corralling two of three targets for 29 receiving yards during Sunday's 31-23 loss to Minnesota.

    Analysis: Following a promising Texans debut in which he racked up 109 scrimmage yards, including a 19-yard touchdown run, Johnson has been largely contained by opposing defenses the past three weeks. In his most recent outings against the Ravens, Steelers and Vikings, the 2016 All-Pro has averaged a meager 3.0 yards per rushing attempt with one total touchdown and two catches per game. The slate does get significantly easier for Johnson in Week 5, as he faces a Jaguars defense that just surrendered 151…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 4 at 2:27pm by Rotowire.com
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  • No room to run

    The Texans' offensive line has not given Johnson much room to run through the first three weeks, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reports. "There's nothing that David can do differently," Texans coach Bill O'Brien said. "Look, can we run block better? Yes, but we're all in it together. Coaching-wise we've got to do a better job."

    Analysis: The offensive line is allowing too much penetration, which hasn't presented many holes for Johnson. Linemen Max Scharping, Senio Kelemete, Zach Fulton and Nick Martin have registered sub-par run-blocking grades, per Pro Football Focus. Johnson hasn't helped himself after contact, averaging just 1.8 yards after initial contact, 31st among the 32 backs with at least 30 carries. He remains the team's No. 1 running back, but the Texans have Duke Johnson returning this week after he missed the…read more

    Published: Sat, Oct 3 at 7:03am by Rotowire.com
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  • Finds end zone in loss

    Johnson rushed 13 times for 23 yards and a touchdown and caught two of three targets for 23 yards in Sunday's 28-21 loss to the Steelers.

    Analysis: Following a strong Week 1, Johnson's ground game has appeared to get progressively worse en route to 1.8 yards per carry in Week 3. However, it's not as disappointing as a glance at the stat line would suggest, as this is the same defensive front that held Giants RB Saquon Barkley (knee) to just six yards on 15 carries in the season opener. Johnson still managed to reel in a pair of catches and a touchdown in the second quarter to provide some relief for fantasy managers. He'll look to get back…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 27 at 1:33pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Less success Week 2

    Johnson gained 34 yards on 11 carries and caught two of four targets for 16 yards in Sunday's 33-16 loss to the Ravens in Week 2.

    Analysis: Johnson may have caught the Chiefs by surprise in Week 1, but the Ravens were watching and shut him down. He was held to 50 yards from scrimmage after crossing the century mark (109 yards) last week. With Duke Johnson (ankle) inactive, David Johnson gobbled up all the running back targets and finished tied for fourth in total targets with tight end Darren Fells. David Johnson looks to rebound Week 3 on the road against a Pittsburgh defense that is holding backs to 2.9 yards per carry through…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 20 at 6:18pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Looks sharp in team debut

    Johnson rushed 11 times for 77 yards and a touchdown and brought in three of four targets for 32 yards in the Texans' 34-20 loss to the Chiefs on Thursday.

    Analysis: On a night when the Texans disappointingly looked non-competitive for stretches against a team they'd played well against last season, Johnson, an offseason acquisition looking to reset his career in Houston, was a bright spot. The oft-maligned running back often seemed like the 2016 version of himself while making nifty jump-cuts and displaying strong vision and acceleration. Johnson's renowned pass-catching skills were also on display, and he actually checked in a distant second in receptions…read more

    Published: Thu, Sep 10 at 9:34pm by Rotowire.com
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  • High expecations

    Texans head coach Bill O'Brien said the team has "high expectations" for Johnson, Sarah Barshop of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: The Texans acquired Johnson from the Cardinals when they traded franchise wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, so expectations should be high. Pressure, too. Johnson said he puts pressure on himself and has done so since 2016. "I like the pressure," Johnson said. "It makes me want to be better. It makes me want to compete more and do everything I can to prove the doubters [wrong] or want to make [Bill] O'Brien look good and want to make this organization look good." The 28-year-old back with a big…read more

    Published: Sat, Aug 29 at 7:13am by Rotowire.com
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  • Excited for clean slate

    Johnson expressed confidence in his durability and anticipation for a new beginning with the Texans, Sarah Barshop of EPSN.com reports.

    Analysis: The narrative about Johnson's decline since 2016 is out there after the 28-year-old running back has dealt with injuries and a suspect supporting cast in recent seasons.The one full season he played, 2018, was for the league's lowest-ranked offense, 32nd in rushing and passing. "Just going back to my rookie year of doing everything that I can to make sure that my body is healthy and starting a clean slate for sure with a new team," said Johnson. He enters the offseason as the top back, ahead of…read more

    Published: Tue, Apr 21 at 4:48am by Rotowire.com
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  • Passes physical

    Johnson passed his physical Wednesday, making his trade to the Texans official, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: Johnson dealt with an ankle injury last season and effectively had his 2017 campaign derailed by a dislocated wrist, but he wasn't expected to have any medical red flags heading into the physical. With his health now intact, he'll now be looking to rebound in Houston after a disappointing finish to his tenure in Arizona. The 28-year-old's production has been lackluster since he turned in monster fantasy numbers in 2016, but a change in scenery and a clear spot atop Houston's depth chart could…read more

    Published: Wed, Apr 15 at 2:30pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Swapped for DeAndre Hopkins

    The Cardinals traded Johnson, a 2020 second-round pick and a 2021 fourth-round selection for DeAndre Hopkins and a 2020 fourth-round pick, John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: In what may become the blockbuster move of the 2020 offseason, the Texans opt to settle their backfield situation but in exchange give up one of the league's most reliable wide receivers. Johnson will join forces with Duke Johnson at running back with Houston moving on from unrestricted free agents Lamar Miller (knee) and Carlos Hyde.

    Published: Mon, Mar 16 at 10:35am by Rotowire.com
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  • Shipped to Houston

    The Cardinals traded Johnson to the Texans on Monday, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reports.

    Analysis: Specifics are to follow on what the Cardinals received in return. Less than two years removed from inking Johnson to a massive extension, the Cardinals have moved on after back-to-back lackluster seasons. The transaction was forecast by the team placing the transition tag on Kenyan Drake, who exploded on the scene in 2019 after his trade to the desert midseason. Johnson will join Duke Johnson in the Houston backfield with Lamar Miller (knee) and Carlos Hyde set to become unrestricted free…read more

    Published: Mon, Mar 16 at 10:15am by Rotowire.com
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  • Won't be cut

    Cardinals general manager Steve Keim said Johnson won't be released this offseason, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports. "Cutting him is not an option," Keim said. "You can't just have one back."

    Analysis: Keim merely states the obvious, considering Johnson's three-year, $39 million extension includes a fully guaranteed $10.2 million base salary for 2020, per overthecap.com. A trade isn't out of the question, but the Cardinals presumably would need to give up something else -- or renegotiate Johnson's contract to eat some of the salary -- to facilitate a trade for for a 28-year-old running back, who hasn't looked especially good since 2016. Johnson did produce 10.3 yards per catch and 7.9 per…read more

    Published: Fri, Feb 14 at 7:35am by Rotowire.com
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  • Interesting offseason ahead

    Johnson compiled 94 carries for 345 yards and two touchdowns and hauled in 36 of 47 passes for 370 yards and four more TDs in 13 games this season.

    Analysis: Johnson signed a lucrative three-year extension on the eve of the 2018 campaign, but he's disappointed in 29 appearances in the interim. His pass-catching acumen is clear, as evidenced by a catch rate of 69.9 percent (86 receptions on 123 targets) and 9.5 yards per catch. His performance on the ground has been a different story. Managing only 3.7 yards per rush during that stretch, Johnson effectively was benched in 2019 in favor of midseason trade acquisition Kenyan Drake, who tore it up after…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 30 at 8:50pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Earns four touches Week 16

    Johnson took two carries for three yards and posted one reception (on one target) for four yards during Sunday's 27-13 win at Seattle.

    Analysis: Johnson started each of the Cardinals' first seven games of the season, only to injure his ankle Week 7 and miss two contests as a result. Upon his return, he got the nod again, but the lead back role remained in the hands of midseason trade acquisition Kenyan Drake. Johnson's usage has been minimal in the meantime, and while he joined Drake in the starting lineup this past Sunday, he did little with his four touches. With one game remaining on the schedule, Johnson may be running out of time…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 23 at 2:27pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Notches just three carries Sunday

    Johnson had three carries for six yards and returned one kickoff for 24 yards during Sunday's 38-24 win against the Browns.

    Analysis: Johnson's totes came on the Cardinals' first possession, a drive late in the second quarter, and then on the second-to-last play of the game as the offense was attempting to burn the clock. Meanwhile, Kenyan Drake again dominated touches out of the backfield, turning 23 carries and catches into 146 yards from scrimmage and four touchdowns on the ground. Their usage was reflected in their respective snap counts: Drake handled 46 of 61 on offense while Johnson got only 13. Such has been the trend…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 16 at 2:58pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Scores TD despite limited workload

    Johnson ran for 19 yards on three carries and caught both of his targets for 34 receiving yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 23-17 loss to Pittsburgh.

    Analysis: The 2016 All-Pro back has been relegated to a part-time role since the arrival of Kenyan Drake, collecting a surprisingly slim workload of 5.7 offensive touches per game since Week 10. Prior to Drake's Cardinals debut Oct. 31, Johnson had averaged 17.7 combined rush attempts and receptions per game. With most leagues in the midst of the fantasy playoffs, Johnson is hard to trust, even going up against a Cleveland defense in Week 15 that allows nearly 4.8 yards per carry to opposing running…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 8 at 5:31pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Six touches in loss

    Johnson carried the ball four times for 15 yards and caught both his targets for nine yards in Sunday's 34-7 loss to the Rams,

    Analysis: Kenyan Drake saw 15 touches to Johnson's six on the afternoon while Chase Edmonds got zero, so the pecking order in the Cards' backfield doesn't seem to have changed coming out of the team's bye. Johnson' inability to break a big play with his limited workload doesn't make a good argument for more action, but the whole offense struggled in this one. He'll likely handle No. 2 duties again next week against a stingy Steelers defense.

    Published: Sun, Dec 1 at 6:00pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Has unknown role

    Johnson has an undetermined role in the Cardinals offense as the team prepares for a Week 13 matchup with the Rams, Kyle Odegard of the team's official site reports.

    Analysis: Kenyan Drake has usurped the No. 1 spot on the depth chart since arriving in Arizona from Miami prior to Week 9. In three contests before the Cardinals' Week 12 bye, Drake totaled 41 carries and 16 catches. Meanwhile, Johnson was active twice during that span, but all six of his touches occurred Week 10. Adding another variable to the equation is the potential return of Chase Edmonds (hamstring), who practiced in a limited capacity Wednesday. Drake appears to be the only known quantity in…read more

    Published: Wed, Nov 27 at 4:45pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Zero touches in Sunday's loss

    Johnson failed to touch the ball in Sunday's 36-26 loss to the 49ers.

    Analysis: Coach Kliff Kingsbury suggested during the week he would use a backfield committee Sunday, but it turned out to be a committee of one as Kenyan Drake turned 22 touches into 80 scrimmage yards. It's not clear whether Johnson's lack of use was due to strategy, him still not being 100 percent or some other reason, but his relegation to a backup role since the acquisition of Drake is a serious concern to anyone with fantasy shares in the RB. The Cards will be on bye Week 12, and Chase Edmonds…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 17 at 5:35pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Part of 'committee' with Drake

    Coach Kliff Kingsbury said after Friday's practice that Johnson will be included in a "committee" at running back with Kenyan Drake during Sunday's game against the 49ers, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: The absence of Chase Edmonds (hamstring) at least spares Johnson and Drake of another potential threat, but both backs may struggle to deliver useful fantasy production while sharing work against a stout 49ers defense. Though Drake appeared to be working with the first-team offense in the portion of practice Friday that was open to the media, Kingsbury declined to name a starter and said both backs would have distinct packages in Sunday's game. If the workload distribution during last week's…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 15 at 1:36pm by Rotowire.com
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  • May be No. 2 back

    Johnson appeared to be taking reps with the Cardinals' second-team offense during Friday's practice, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Though Johnson hasn't appeared on the Cardinals' Week 11 injury report, his performance in last week's loss to the Buccaneers suggested he was still slowed by the ankle injury that kept him sidelined for the previous two contests. Johnson played only 43 percent of the offensive snaps against Tampa Bay, logging five carries for two yards and one reception for eight yards. Meanwhile, Kenyan Drake -- who was spotted taking the first-team reps Friday -- paced the Arizona backfield with a 64 percent…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 15 at 11:49am by Rotowire.com
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  • Gets benched Sunday

    Johnson was benched by coach Kilff Kingsbury for the fourth quarter of Sunday's 30-27 loss at Tampa Bay in favor of Kenyan Drake, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: With Chase Edmonds (hamstring) sidelined, Johnson and Drake were expected to split the RB reps in some way, shape or form in Week 10. Having said that, Johnson didn't see the field at all after his fumble late in the third quarter, seeing 43 percent of the offensive snaps to Drake's 64 percent. Consequently, Johnson accumulated six touches and 10 yards from scrimmage to Drake's 16 and 41, respectively. There's no telling when Edmonds will be back in action, and Kingsbury gave no indication that…read more

    Published: Mon, Nov 11 at 7:07pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Light workload in return

    Johnson carried five times for two yards and brought in his only target for eight yards in the Cardinals' 30-27 loss to the Buccaneers on Sunday. He also lost a fumble.

    Analysis: Johnson was making his return from what was essentially a three-game absence due to an ankle sprain, and his late third-quarter fumble after a reception led to a tie-breaking field goal by Matt Gay. As his final line corroborates, Johnson's workload was exceedingly light, partly a function of having to share snaps with the recently-arrived Kenyan Drake, who outpaced Johnson by five carries and six targets. It's difficult to ascertain whether Sunday's division of labor has any long-term…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 10 at 2:34pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Geared up for return

    Johnson (ankle) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game in Tampa Bay, while fellow running back Chase Edmonds (hamstring) has been ruled out, Kyle Odegard of the Cardinals' official site reports.

    Analysis: The dread of a potential three-way split will have to wait at least one more week and probably longer, but Johnson does have Kenyan Drake competing for touches after the former Dolphin blew up for 162 scrimmage yards last Thursday against the 49ers. The matchup with Tampa's run-stuffing, pass-funnel defense represents another problem, though Johnson has the requisite athleticism and pass-catching ability to overcome both of these obstacles.

    Published: Fri, Nov 8 at 2:43pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Full participant in practice

    Johnson (ankle) practiced fully Wednesday, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Johnson looks on track to play Sunday against the Buccaneers after missing Arizona's last two games due to a lingering ankle issue. With Chase Edmonds (hamstring) not practicing to begin the week, Johnson and newcomer Kenyan Drake appear primed to serve as Arizona's top backfield options in Week 10. Drake is coming off an explosive debut performance with the Cardinals last week, when he accumulated 162 scrimmage yards and a touchdown in a loss to the 49ers. It's difficult to predict how coach…read more

    Published: Wed, Nov 6 at 1:11pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Expects to play versus Bucs

    Johnson (ankle) said Wednesday that he's "definitely playing" against the Buccaneers this weekend, Scott Bordow of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Johnson also affirmed that he's back to 100 percent health after a two-game absence. Before the Cardinals clear Johnson for Week 10, they'll see how he fares in practices Wednesday through Friday. Given how well Kenyan Drake performed in his Cardinals debut in last Thursday's loss to the 49ers, Johnson isn't a safe bet to immediate take back the lion's share of backfield snaps if cleared to play against the Bucs.

    Published: Wed, Nov 6 at 12:27pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Expected back Week 10

    Johnson (ankle) is expected to return to action in the Cardinals' Week 10 game against the Buccaneers, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

    Analysis: Johnson was inactive for the second straight game in Thursday's 28-25 loss to the 49ers but he may have had a legitimate shot at suiting up if the Cardinals hadn't faced a quick turnaround in Week 9. The team's decision to release fellow running back Alfred Morris on Friday supports the notion that Johnson's ankle issue is being viewed as a day-to-day matter, but the 27-year-old will still need to demonstrate progress in practices next week before his availability for the game in Tampa Bay is…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 1 at 1:55pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
More news and analysis available at NFL.com

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