Former Tennessee Vol named as a perfect free agent fit for Washington Commanders

Earlier this week, I noted that former Tennessee Vols linebacker Alexander Johnson was mentioned by ESPN as one of the most underrated free agents available this offseason. Johnson has proved over the last couple of years to be a solid NFL linebacker during his time with the Denver Broncos. As a result, he's hoping to […]

Zach Ragan Tennessee Volunteers News Writer
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Earlier this week, I noted that former Tennessee Vols linebacker Alexander Johnson was mentioned by ESPN as one of the most underrated free agents available this offseason.

Johnson has proved over the last couple of years to be a solid NFL linebacker during his time with the Denver Broncos. As a result, he's hoping to cash in this offseason with a multi-year free-agent deal.

ESPN thinks they know the team that could give him that deal. They labeled Johnson this week as a "perfect match" for the Washington Commanders.

From ESPN:

Johnson was having an incredible 2021 campaign before suffering a torn pec in Week 6, as he owned an 81.0 PFF grade and hadn't missed a tackle on 34 attempts. In 2019 and 2020, he was one of the five highest-graded off-ball linebackers in the league. The 30-year-old's pro career got off to a late start, but he has more than proved that he belongs as a starting linebacker. Regardless of the scheme, any team with a hole at linebacker — like Washington — should look to bring in Johnson.

Tennessee Vols
Jul 28, 2021; Englewood, CO, United States; Denver Broncos inside linebacker Alexander Johnson (45) talks with Josh Watson (54) during training camp at UCHealth Training Complex. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

Johnson got a late start to his career after he was kicked off the Tennessee football team in late 2014 while facing rape accusations.

The Gainesville, GA native was cleared of those charges in 2018. He signed a free-agent deal with the Broncos shortly after he was cleared.

Johnson just turned 30 in December, so this could be his last shot at a significant multi-year deal.

Featured image via Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports