Earlier this week, a report from Ian Rapoport of NFL.com indicated the Titans plan to keep running back Chris Johnson for the 2013 season at a salary of $10 million.
Jim Wyatt of the Tennessean is hearing the same thing from his sources, pointing out that they have a lot of cap room to use on improvements for the 2013 season even while paying Johnson his full salary. General Manager Ruston Webster wasn’t available to answer questions about Johnson on Thursday, but head coach Mike Munchak says it is full speed ahead in terms of the team’s relationship with Johnson.
“We want C.J. to finish strong and we are assuming he’s going to be here next year,” Munchak said. “Forge ahead, baby. How many years is he signed for? We feel good about C.J. and we are headed in the right direction there. I expect him to be back.”
Johnson’s play this season has covered pretty much the entire spectrum. He started the year with 35 yards in his first three games, but he’s averaging 5.3 yards per carry since then with the help of three touchdown runs that covered 80 or more yards. If Jake Locker keeps progressing and the holes on the offensive line are filled, it’s fair to think that Johnson is capable of that kind of production in 2013 for the Titans.