NFL Rumors: Cleveland Browns Unlikely To Re-Sign Running Back


After spending his entire career with the Cleveland Browns, running back D'Ernest Johnson is set to hit free agency once again.

The Browns are not expected to re-sign the 27-year-old, who finished the 2022 season with just seven touches.

While Johnson had a breakout year in 2021, filling in capably for injured backs Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt, he was buried on the depth chart last season, and coach Kevin Stefanski has talked up Jerome Ford as the team's No. 2 back.

With just 738 yards and three touchdowns off 141 attempts in 64 games, Johnson hasn't been a consistent contributor for the Browns, and he will look to find a clearer path to snaps elsewhere.

Both Johnson and Kareem Hunt will test the open market, and the Browns are expected to move forward with Ford as Chubb's top backup.

Over his four-year career, Johnson has rushed 141 times for 738 yards (5.2 avg) and five touchdowns across 64 games. Photo Credit: Scott Galvin-USA TODAY Sports