The Los Angeles Rams made headlines on July 4th, announcing the return of veteran safety John Johnson III. After a stint in free agency, Johnson signed a new contract to rejoin the Rams, marking his second time with the team. While the specifics of the contract remain undisclosed, this move highlights the Rams’ commitment to strengthening their secondary.
Under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Chris Shula, the Rams have been actively revamping their defensive backfield throughout the offseason, adding five new players through the draft and free agency. This influx of talent raises questions about how Johnson will fit into the Rams’ defensive scheme and where he’ll be most impactful.
NFL: Los Angeles Rams at Arizona Cardinals
Johnson’s History with the Rams and His Recent Journey
Drafted by the Rams in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Johnson quickly established himself as a key contributor to the defense. After fulfilling his rookie contract, he signed a three-year deal with the Cleveland Browns. However, his time in Cleveland was short-lived, as he was released in March 2023. The Rams seized the opportunity to bring him back on a one-year contract, allowing him to play in all 17 games, including eight starts.
Defining Johnson’s Role in the New-Look Secondary
Johnson’s return begs the question of how he’ll be utilized within the Rams’ evolving defensive backfield. Last season, Johnson’s playing time was limited until after the bye week, when he took over the free safety position from Russ Yeast. This time around, his role is less defined, especially with the arrival of new talent.
NFL: Washington Commanders at Los Angeles Rams
One intriguing possibility is whether the Rams will deploy Johnson closer to the line of scrimmage. During his first stint with the Rams, he demonstrated his versatility by playing both deep and in the box. The acquisition of safety Kamren Curl, known for his physicality and run support, might signal a return to a defense that utilizes stacked boxes.
Adding further intrigue to Johnson’s role is the Rams’ decision to let former free safety Jordan Fuller walk in free agency. Fuller, who played over 93% of defensive snaps last season, was initially drafted as Johnson’s replacement. Now, it seems the Rams might be reversing course, potentially using Johnson to fill at least a portion of Fuller’s vacated playing time.
Projecting the Rams’ Safety Rotation
The Rams’ current safety group presents a blend of experience and potential, making the competition for playing time fierce. Both Curl and Yeast appear better suited for roles closer to the line of scrimmage, while Johnson and rookie Kamren Kinchens boast more experience as deep safeties.
This dynamic suggests a potential shift in the Rams’ defensive philosophy, moving away from the versatile, positionless secondary they’ve employed in recent years. Instead, the Rams’ defensive backs might operate with more defined roles, each specializing in specific areas of the field. This could mean a diminished emphasis on the hybrid “STAR” role that has been a feature of the Rams’ defense in recent seasons.
NFL: Los Angeles Rams at New York Giants
With the season fast approaching, it remains to be seen exactly how John Johnson III will be integrated into the Los Angeles Rams’ revamped secondary. However, his experience, versatility, and familiarity with the Rams’ system make him a valuable asset. The competition within the safety group will be a compelling storyline to watch as the Rams aim to rebound from a disappointing 2023 season.
