Johnson is the kind of back coaches trust in dirty situations. He can protect, run with some force and contribute without needing a big share of the offensive script.
Strengths: Powerful build, pass-catching experience, short-yardage potential, special-teams value and physical temperament.
Weaknesses: His offensive opportunities are limited behind Swift and Monangai, and recent injury interruptions have slowed momentum.
★★★★★★★★★★
BearDownBriannaSep 1, 2026
Johnson has become the forgotten man in this backfield. He is still a big, willing pass protector and useful short-yardage option, but two carries in seven games last year tells the story: Swift and Monangai passed him. His rookie receiving work showed he can do more than hammer inside, yet the burst has never been special and recent efficiency has not demanded touches. I have him at a five as reliable physical depth who needs special teams and goal-line work to stay relevant.
Strengths: Johnson brings size, toughness and some of the best pass-protection ability in the running back room. He falls forward, handles contact, catches checkdowns cleanly and can be trusted in high-leverage protection assignments.
Weaknesses: He lacks the acceleration and lateral quickness of Chicago's top two backs, and his offensive opportunity nearly disappeared in 2025. Crowded-box runs can stall when he cannot build momentum, limiting his value beyond short yardage.