WPC: With Johnson here, Does Portis stay?

[Pappas]

http://web.warpathconfidential.com/?p=3240

With Johnson here, Does Portis stay?

By John Pappas
Warpath Confidential Editor

On the eighth day of free agency, the Redskins finally signed a player the average fan has heard of in running back Larry Johnson. Unconfirmed reports are the deal is for three years and has a maximum value of $12 million.

Johnson was a dominant rusher in his prime, amassing 3,539 yards over two seasons (2005-2006), and appearing in two Pro Bowls during the same time. He was also named an Associated Press First-Team All-Pro in 2006.

Since then however, Johnson’s production has fallen off due to injuries and other factors. He has not rushed for 1,000 yards or better since 2006, and has not scored a rushing touchdown since 2007. An older back who was once great, Johnson hopes to stay healthy in order to show he can still be productive.

Sort of like a guy the Redskins already have in Clinton Portis. In fact, in some ways the two are pretty similar.

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[China]

One thing is certain; the heat just got turned up on Portis. He no longer holds the high running back perch by default, and will have to earn his starting spot this year.

Competition is good. Perhaps the crucible of competition and more dedicated offseason training will bring out the best in one or both of them.

 

[Om]

The Redskins aren't heading into 2010 counting on just CP and LJ ... there will be young legs on the RB roster come training camp as well. Watch for the team to bring in free agents trying to find those legs, and to draft a RB as well. They won't use the 1st or 2nd on one (assuming there isn't a trade-down situation and they pick up an extra high-rounder), but beyond that I think we'll see them grab a ballcarrier to spell the old men and groom for tomorrow.

 

[Pappas]

The Redskins aren't heading into 2010 counting on just CP and LJ ... there will be young legs on the RB roster come training camp as well. Watch for the team to bring in free agents trying to find those legs, and to draft a RB as well. They won't use the 1st or 2nd on one (assuming there isn't a trade-down situation and they pick up an extra high-rounder), but beyond that I think we'll see them grab a ballcarrier to spell the old men and groom for tomorrow.

I agree. However, I think if Shanahan drafts someone he thinks can contribute, I would not be surprised to see one of the older guys go.

Don't forget Anthony Alridge. Shanahan signed him in 2008 and I hear he likes him a lot. With his speed, I wouldn't be surprised if we see him as the third down back.

Now if he can just learn to hold on to the ball...

 

[riggins44]

I think Johnson will push Portis. With Johnson on the roster Clinton has to know he needs to work in the offseason, preseason, and in practice.

Shanahan is a no nonsense coach, so Johnson I'm sure knows if he talks out of school about the coach or anyone on team he will be history.

 

[Billfishead]

The Redskins aren't heading into 2010 counting on just CP and LJ ... there will be young legs on the RB roster come training camp as well. Watch for the team to bring in free agents trying to find those legs, and to draft a RB as well. They won't use the 1st or 2nd on one (assuming there isn't a trade-down situation and they pick up an extra high-rounder), but beyond that I think we'll see them grab a ballcarrier to spell the old men and groom for tomorrow.

Couldn't agree more. I wouldn't mind seeing us pick up someone like Auburn RB Ben Tate in the 4th round. Solid back, good feet and put up excellent combine numbers.

 

[Boone]

of course he does. you have to have at least 2 RBs in this league now. and portis gets paid no matter what happens so why cut him? its like paying for a car just to watch someone else drive it. doesnt make any sense.

That's true to the extent the car isn't belching out smoke, backfiring and waking the neighbors, or end up on blocks in the front yard

Portis starts pouting, spouting, or publically doubting, and Shanahan will release him so fast, he won't have time to clean out his locker.

Bet on it.

Now if CP wants to keep his mouth shut, focus on his own performance, and work hard - he'll be a key part of the offense. It's really up to him.

 

[Skinsfan76]

Another guy I like on the roster is PJ Hills. Some of you guys might be thinking "who"... but he was signed off the Eagles practice squad in December and is still on the team. I think if Portis is on his best behavior he starts out the season as the starting RB while LJ is there in case Portis doesn't behave and either way would get some carriers. Aldridge will be the change of pace back and could even do some punt or kickoff returns but I think PJ Hills will be involved too. He had a pretty good college career at Wisconsin.

 

[Sarge]

If we trade both of them, can we get a third round pick and get a RB that way?

 

[@DCGoldPants]

with or without LJ, I think Portis knows that he is on a short leash. So, maybe this will push Portis harder. Maybe not.

If he's not part of the solution. Then he's part of the problem, and could end up getting cut late in the summer where there aren't many openings out there.

 

[Skinsfan76]

I think if Portis had any trade value, we would have already traded him.