With the free agency frenzy beginning, the Chargers target a player head coach Brandon Staley is familiar with.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Los Angeles is expected to pursue former Browns safety John Johnson III.
Johnson was recently released by the Browns as a move to clear up cap space. Johnson was in Cleveland the last two seasons, totaling 162 tackles in 32 career starts. Additionally, Johnson intercepted four passes.
Johnson played under Staley in 2020 when he was the defensive coordinator for the Rams. That year, Johnson was the primary play-caller for Staley’s defense, where he had his best campaign yet.
After suffering an injury in 2019 that limited him to six games, Johnson logged 105 combined tackles, eight passes defended and an interception in 2020. In addition, he only allowed 4.9 yards per target.
With Nasir Adderley expected to hit the free agency market, Johnson could fill that void if he is not re-resigned. The 27-year-old Johnson is savvy, adept in pass coverage and run defense, and versatile in playing both safety spots and slot cornerback.
Pro Football Focus has Johnson’s projected contract to be for one year worth $5.5 million.
