Former Tennessee Vols defender labeled as one of the NFL's most underrated free agents
A former Tennessee Vols defender was named this week by ESPN as one of the most underrated free agents of the offseason. Alexander Johnson, more commonly known as AJ Johnson to Tennessee fans, was listed by ESPN as the most underrated free-agent linebacker. Here's what ESPN had to say about Johnson: Johnson was having an […]
A former Tennessee Vols defender was named this week by ESPN as one of the most underrated free agents of the offseason.
Alexander Johnson, more commonly known as AJ Johnson to Tennessee fans, was listed by ESPN as the most underrated free-agent linebacker.
Here's what ESPN had to say about Johnson:
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 should look to bring in Johnson.
Johnson was a fan-favorite during his time on Rocky Top, thanks to his passionate playing style under former Vols head coaches Derek Dooley and Butch Jones.
The Georgia native, however, was kicked off the team in late 2014 due to an accusation of rape. Johnson was officially cleared of the charges in the summer of 2018. While Johnson was waiting to be cleared of the charges, he stayed in football shape. He got his shot when the Denver Broncos signed him to a contract shortly after he was cleared.
Johnson didn't play much in 2018, but he made a big impact in 2019 for Denver while totaling 93 tackles in 12 starts. The former Tennessee standout had 124 total tackles in 2020.
It's unclear what kind of market Johnson, who turned 30 in December, will enjoy. He'll likely be looking to land a multi-year deal, as this offseason should be his best shot at landing a significant deal in free agency.
Featured image via USA TODAY Sports
