Miami Dolphins general manager Chris Grier is never done churning the roster. Per ESPN’s Field Yates, Grier placed a waiver claim on former Detroit Lions running back Kerryon Johnson following his release from the team. Grier was one of two general managers to place a claim, with the other being the Philadelphia Eagles’ Howie Roseman. Johnson was awarded to the Eagles due to Philadelphia’s current higher placement on the waiver order.
A second-round pick out of Auburn, Johnson, 23, was highly touted coming out of college and was supposed to be a key piece in Detroit’s offense following his selection in the 2018 NFL Draft. Unfortunately, a combination of knee injuries derailed the start to his career. He has played in just 34 of 48 possible games over the past three seasons, starting 16. In that time, he’s accumulated 1,225 career rushing yards at 4.3 yards per clip, 61 receptions, 527 receiving yards, and 11 total touchdowns.
Johnson’s versatility should allow him to make a strong claim for a roster spot despite Philadelphia’s crowded running back room. The Eagles currently sport Miles Sanders, Boston Scott, former Miami Dolphin Jordan Howard, and rookie fifth-round draft pick Kenneth Gainwell at the position in addition to some depth options.
While other veteran options remain on the market, Miami is likely set with the majority of its running back depth chart slots. In addition to presumed starter Myles Gaskin, head coach Brian Flores has a combination of free agent signee Malcolm Brown, rookie seventh-round draft pick Gerrid Doaks, Salvon Ahmed, Patrick Laird, and Jordan Scarlett at his disposal. Lynn Bowden Jr., who’s currently listed as a wide receiver on the team’s roster, and Malcolm Perry, who’s currently listed with a “RB/WR” designation, both have experience running the ball as well.
