NFL Insider Reveals New Tyler Johnson Update

Having a strong preseason did not spare Johnson from becoming one of the casualties on roster cutdown day.

He led the Buccaneers with 11 catches for 133 yards, making the Texans’ decision a no-brainer.

More importantly, he has a cap-friendly deal because he still has two years left on his rookie contract.

Johnson could be the other receiver that could attract attention away from Brandin Cooks.

His addition also gives Davis Mills more targets around him.

The former Minnesota standout finished his rookie season with 12 receptions for 169 yards and two touchdowns in 14 games.

A year later, he had 360 yards in 36 receptions.

He was selected in the fifth round of the 2020 NFL Draft and won Super Bowl LV with the Buccaneers in the same season.

Why Did Tampa Bay Release Johnson?

First, it would be difficult for him to crack a rotation that already has Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, Russell Gage, and Julio Jones.

Second, since he will see limited playing time at wide receiver, he could offer value in special teams.

However, that’s where guys like Jaelon Darden and Scotty Miller come in handy because of their speed.

Darden could be their punt return guy, while Miller is an ideal gunner.

Third, Johnson performed poorly when he had a chance to play last season, as proven by his zero touchdowns on 55 targets.

Those reasons justify the Buccaneers’ release of Johnson.

However, his situation in Houston will be different because he could even become a starter.

But he must fast-track his learning of their system before the Texans face the Indianapolis Colts on September 11.