Chris Johnson (1 Viewer)

[VaCatFan]

I thought Johnson had a solid rookie season, but three things are bugging me about him.

1. He's probably still going to lose carries to Landwhale White.

2. Landwhale White is showing up to camp 20lbs lighter by reports.

3. He left that playoff game and didn't seem too interested in returning.

What do you guys think of him?

 

[travdogg]

I thought Johnson had a solid rookie season, but three things are bugging me about him.1. He's probably still going to lose carries to Landwhale White.2. Landwhale White is showing up to camp 20lbs lighter by reports.3. He left that playoff game and didn't seem too interested in returning. What do you guys think of him?

1. He'll share carries, he won't lose them. He'll see more touches than he saw last season.2. Sweet, White will be down to 240? He's no threat to become the lead back and may be close to becoming strictly a goal line specialist ala Duckett if the Titans D takes a step back.3. He had a pretty bad ankle injury, thanks to a tackle that probably should have been penalized by Reed. Personally, I don't think Johnson has even scratched the surface of what's he's capable of, what he did last year is very likely his floor. I wouldn't be shocked if he was the #1 RB in the NFL this season. He looks like a more explosive Brian Westbrook at times.

 

[simey]

3. He left that playoff game and didn't seem too interested in returning.

When Chris played for ECU, his great work ethic was one of his best qualities. I highly doubt lack of interest played any part in him not returning after spraining his ankle.

 

[SproutDaddy]

I think too many people place a negative emphasis on RBBC. That system works out best for some backs. Don't get greedy!

 

[Weiner Dog]

I thought Johnson had a solid rookie season, but three things are bugging me about him.1. He's probably still going to lose carries to Landwhale White.2. Landwhale White is showing up to camp 20lbs lighter by reports.3. He left that playoff game and didn't seem too interested in returning. What do you guys think of him?

Every year, White supposedly shows up to camp 20lbs lighter. If this were true, he'd weigh 160lbs by now.

 

[trader jake]

Personally, I don't think Johnson has even scratched the surface of what's he's capable of, what he did last year is very likely his floor. I wouldn't be shocked if he was the #1 RB in the NFL this season. He looks like a more explosive Brian Westbrook at times.

Chris Johnson could have a great sophomore season but it sounds like your expectations are approaching the unrealistic. The league now has a full year of film on him and the Titans are likely to regress to the mean a bit.

Every year, White supposedly shows up to camp 20lbs lighter. If this were true, he'd weigh 160lbs by now.

He's the new Ron Dayne. In all seriousness, White will be fine as long as he's playing for a quality head coach.

 

[DoctorFantasy]

I thought Johnson had a solid rookie season, but three things are bugging me about him.1. He's probably still going to lose carries to Landwhale White.2. Landwhale White is showing up to camp 20lbs lighter by reports.3. He left that playoff game and didn't seem too interested in returning. What do you guys think of him?

I watched a lot of film on him last year and he will be fine. He finished as the #11 scoring RB in 2008 (FBG scoring). Tennessee intends to get him more touches in 2009 in comparison to 2008. I was impressed not only with his speed and wiggle, but his vision was better than I originally thought. He also seems to effectively break/carry tacklers for a RB of his size and move through/find holes through the line of scrimmage. I see him finishing as a top 6/7 RB in scoring in 2009.

 

[SugarNuts]

Personally, I don't think Johnson has even scratched the surface of what's he's capable of, what he did last year is very likely his floor. I wouldn't be shocked if he was the #1 RB in the NFL this season. He looks like a more explosive Brian Westbrook at times.

What makes you say this? Did you draft him last year based on talent and actually expect him to do well? Not trying to be a smart ###, but it makes me laugh sometimes how people think he can only get better and better when they are only basing it off of last season. A lot of people expected him to be more of just a combine wonder with lots of speed. Now Im sure there are some folks that drafted him expecting him to do well, but those are most likely people that followed him in college. Me personally, I know only what I saw last year and would be impressed if he came close to what he did last year. I dont think they play the Lions again this year.

I actually traded the draft pick last year (1.09) to move down. Sucks for me.

 

[Chunky Soup]

I'd ask EBF for thoughts on this one. He has great insight into players BMI and performance in the NFL.

 

[Brewzers]

Personally, I don't think Johnson has even scratched the surface of what's he's capable of, what he did last year is very likely his floor. I wouldn't be shocked if he was the #1 RB in the NFL this season. He looks like a more explosive Brian Westbrook at times.

What makes you say this? Did you draft him last year based on talent and actually expect him to do well? Not trying to be a smart ###, but it makes me laugh sometimes how people think he can only get better and better when they are only basing it off of last season. A lot of people expected him to be more of just a combine wonder with lots of speed. Now Im sure there are some folks that drafted him expecting him to do well, but those are most likely people that followed him in college. Me personally, I know only what I saw last year and would be impressed if he came close to what he did last year. I dont think they play the Lions again this year.

I actually traded the draft pick last year (1.09) to move down. Sucks for me.

His receiving stats were 43/260/1. I don't think its too hard to imagine more receptions and higher yds/catch in 2009.

 

[mikel0254]

Personally, I don't think Johnson has even scratched the surface of what's he's capable of, what he did last year is very likely his floor. I wouldn't be shocked if he was the #1 RB in the NFL this season. He looks like a more explosive Brian Westbrook at times.

Chris Johnson could have a great sophomore season but it sounds like your expectations are approaching the unrealistic. The league now has a full year of film on him and the Titans are likely to regress to the mean a bit.

Every year, White supposedly shows up to camp 20lbs lighter. If this were true, he'd weigh 160lbs by now.

He's the new Ron Dayne. In all seriousness, White will be fine as long as he's playing for a quality head coach.

I've heard this over and over throughout the years (not just on here), and I think it's the weakest argument you can make against a player. If that were true, NOBODY would have a better sophomore year than their rookie year. Some players are just special, and CJ falls into that category. I don't care how much tape you have on someone, if you get a guy with that much speed into space (which the Titans said was their plan for him this coming year), there's no way he's not going to put up good numbers.It seems like throughout the offseason, CJ is one of the only running backs where the coaches are saying they are getting them MORE involved. I think we'll see an improved CJ this year, with (dare I say) more involvement around the goalline....

 

[travdogg]

Personally, I don't think Johnson has even scratched the surface of what's he's capable of, what he did last year is very likely his floor. I wouldn't be shocked if he was the #1 RB in the NFL this season. He looks like a more explosive Brian Westbrook at times.

What makes you say this? Did you draft him last year based on talent and actually expect him to do well? Not trying to be a smart ###, but it makes me laugh sometimes how people think he can only get better and better when they are only basing it off of last season. A lot of people expected him to be more of just a combine wonder with lots of speed. Now Im sure there are some folks that drafted him expecting him to do well, but those are most likely people that followed him in college. Me personally, I know only what I saw last year and would be impressed if he came close to what he did last year. I dont think they play the Lions again this year.

I actually traded the draft pick last year (1.09) to move down. Sucks for me.

Yes, I thought Johnson would be very good last year, I didn't expect him to be the best RB in the draft class but I had him in the top-3. I also believe last year's RB class was the best one I can remember in the 10 years I've followed the draft, even better than 2001. Based of what I thought before the 08' draft and what happened last season, I think CJ3 is going to be the best of last year's class and maybe the NFL.CJ3 can score from anywhere, has underrated power and has very good hands and will be used as a pass catcher more often than he was a year ago. Also, he faced nothing but 8 and sometimes even 9 man fronts for almost all of last year.

Johnson, IMO, had the most impressive performance of last season by any RB in that playoff game against what I believed was the best defense of 2008. 100 yards in a half against the Ravens? What's not to like?

I realize I'm a bigger far than most, but in all honesty, if I have the 1st pick in a dynasty start up draft, I don't take Peterson or Fitz(who isn't even my #1 WR) I take Chris Johnson.

I mentioned that he was like a faster Westbrook, but really a more accurate comparison could be a young Marshall Faulk.

How someone can not have have CJ3 as a top-5 RB is beyond me.

 

[trader jake]

It seems like throughout the offseason, CJ is one of the only running backs where the coaches are saying they are getting them MORE involved. I think we'll see an improved CJ this year, with (dare I say) more involvement around the goalline....

CJ scored 9 rushing touchdowns last season. How many more can you expect from him in 2009? Unless LenDale White is injured or the Titans team has another crazy good season (but this time against a first place schedule) I don't see it. I can see his total touches increase but not his overall production based as much on team factors as his own situation splitting time.

 

[Lott's Fingertip]

Well, I guess it is up to me to provide the contrarian viewpoint...

First, let me say that I am not knocking the guy. He is a playmaker and will clearly be successful.

HOWEVER... any talk of him being top 5 or top 3 is very premature, imo. The two most common comparisons made when talking about CJ is Westbrook and Tiki Barber. From what I have seen, both of those guys were more natural receivers and had better builds, that is, they carried more weight in their legs.

Westy and Tiki both put on some weight over their careers, and perhaps CJ can as well, but I am mildly skeptical. CJ has the look of a guy that isn't going to put on bulk. As such, he will never have the power necessary to be a goal line guy, which will limit his upside. It has been mentioned that he breaks tackles, but over 140 of his 251 regular season rushed went for 3 or fewer yards... and there were too many negative yardage carries. I didn't see a guy that broke tackles when I watched him. He broke some tackles, but he wen't down about as easy as most 200 lb players. Tackle-breaking is a function of size, density, and leg strength, and CJ has none of these, imo.

That leads me to my next point: CJ's rushing success will be somewhat dependent on his offensive line. Duh, that's true for all RBs. Well, Tennessee had a very good O-line last year, and that buoyed CJ's rushing stats. That should be true this year as well, but if CJ doesn't have those huge holes (and there were a lot of big ones) to run through, he won't have as many big plays, and that will lower his ypc and TD total.

Speaking of TD total, it's likely that CJ will be up and down from year to year. He had 10 last year, but only 2 of those were from inside 5 yards. It's hard to score from outside of 10 yards as a RB, that's just a simple fact in the NFL. Without double digit TDs, CJ will not be top 5. Frankly, he will likely need 14+ TDs to reach top 5; it is possible, but I would put the over/under for his TDs at about 7.

I also think CJ has good hands, but not Tiki or Westy hands. He'll get 50+ catches, but I think it's unlikely that he gets the 70+ that is necessary for him to leap into the top 5 RBs. One would think that CJ will improve on his 6 yards per catch, and he will certainly need to to get into the top 5. BUT... until Tennessee gets some passing game threats, teams are going to shadow CJ in the flat. This will especially be true if Tenn targets CJ a lot more; CJ is their biggest threat, and teams will treat him as such. Kerry Collins is no McNabb, and Tennessee's WRs don't even have an Amani Toomer level guy.

My last concern is from a dynasty perspective. He is a smallish guy, so there is always the injury specter lurking. He has decent elusiveness, but not the kind that will keep him from taking shots. More carries will lead to him possibly wearing down and that makes an injury more likely. I am of the firm conviction that ALL RBs get hurt, and the best ones play hurt.... but CJs game is built exclusively on his elite speed, so any nagging injuries can reduce his effectiveness more than a RB that is more well rounded.

All that being said, I fully believe Chris Johnson is a fantasy RB1. I would put him in the 7-12 range. I think about 90-110 yards per game is the right range, but lack of TD upside will hold him back. IF he can get into that 14+ TD range, watch out.

But I just don't see ELITE when I watch him.

 

[Lott's Fingertip]

CJ scored 9 rushing touchdowns last season. How many more can you expect from him in 2009? Unless LenDale White is injured or the Titans team has another crazy good season (but this time against a first place schedule) I don't see it. I can see his total touches increase but not his overall production based as much on team factors as his own situation splitting time.

This is a really good point, especially the schedule.CJ scored 2 TDs against Minnesota in week 4, and 1 TD against Pitt is week 16. All of his other TDs came against lesser competition. Also, Tenn lost their most dominant player on defense, so it's entirely conceivable that a less effective defense and a harder schedule will bring down Tennessee's rushing totals.Not necessarily, but that is logical.

 

[CA_7]

Also, Tenn lost their most dominant player on defense, so it's entirely conceivable that a less effective defense and a harder schedule will bring down Tennessee's rushing totals.

Yes, and if you have CJ3 in a ppr this could turn out OK with TEN playing behind and throwing more.

 

[Cookiemonster]

Also, Tenn lost their most dominant player on defense, so it's entirely conceivable that a less effective defense and a harder schedule will bring down Tennessee's rushing totals.

Yes, and if you have CJ3 in a ppr this could turn out OK with TEN playing behind and throwing more.

Maybe not playing from behind just because of a weaker D. Less time on the field, certainly. A better defense almost always leads to better RB #s because of more 3 and outs, more short fields and more turnovers giving the offense more plays and scoring opportunities, as well as the likelyhood of pounding the ball late in the game to secure the low-score lead (not CJ3's forte anyways). I took advantage of his current value this offseason and in essence, got Calvin for him. I'm not very confident that his value will ever be much higher than it is now, and it doesn't have much further it could go anyways. I'm a believer in CJ3, and he should hold nearly top 10 value for his career but if you can get top 5 value for him now and you think you'd be selling low, you should probably switch to a non-rose tinted pair of glasses.

 

[jwinston2]

I'd ask EBF for thoughts on this one. He has great insight into players BMI and performance in the NFL.

 

[mikel0254]

It seems like throughout the offseason, CJ is one of the only running backs where the coaches are saying they are getting them MORE involved. I think we'll see an improved CJ this year, with (dare I say) more involvement around the goalline....

CJ scored 9 rushing touchdowns last season. How many more can you expect from him in 2009? Unless LenDale White is injured or the Titans team has another crazy good season (but this time against a first place schedule) I don't see it. I can see his total touches increase but not his overall production based as much on team factors as his own situation splitting time.

Yes, and White had 15 rushing TD's. Everything that has been said up to this point has been they will get CJ more involved and White less. It's entirely conceivable that CJ's rushing TD's increase.ETA - Also, remember CJ didn't play week 17 because the Titans already wrapped up the playoffs (and home field I think). If you think the Titans will regress, you have to factor in CJ playing one more game (add 100 total yards and maybe a TD to your projections)

 

[Banger]

Personally, I don't think Johnson has even scratched the surface of what's he's capable of, what he did last year is very likely his floor. I wouldn't be shocked if he was the #1 RB in the NFL this season. He looks like a more explosive Brian Westbrook at times.

Chris Johnson could have a great sophomore season but it sounds like your expectations are approaching the unrealistic. The league now has a full year of film on him and the Titans are likely to regress to the mean a bit.

Every year, White supposedly shows up to camp 20lbs lighter. If this were true, he'd weigh 160lbs by now.

He's the new Ron Dayne. In all seriousness, White will be fine as long as he's playing for a quality head coach.

The league had a year on him in the playoff game against the Ravens. He absolutely demolished them and had no answer for him. Unfortunately, he got injured. The guy is an absolute stud.

 

[Polish Hammer]

It seems like throughout the offseason, CJ is one of the only running backs where the coaches are saying they are getting them MORE involved. I think we'll see an improved CJ this year, with (dare I say) more involvement around the goalline....

CJ scored 9 rushing touchdowns last season. How many more can you expect from him in 2009? Unless LenDale White is injured or the Titans team has another crazy good season (but this time against a first place schedule) I don't see it. I can see his total touches increase but not his overall production based as much on team factors as his own situation splitting time.

Yes, and White had 15 rushing TD's. Everything that has been said up to this point has been they will get CJ more involved and White less. It's entirely conceivable that CJ's rushing TD's increase.ETA - Also, remember CJ didn't play week 17 because the Titans already wrapped up the playoffs (and home field I think). If you think the Titans will regress, you have to factor in CJ playing one more game (add 100 total yards and maybe a TD to your projections)

Only if your league is active in week 17, and most people's aren't I would think.

 

[Leroy's Aces]

It seems like throughout the offseason, CJ is one of the only running backs where the coaches are saying they are getting them MORE involved. I think we'll see an improved CJ this year, with (dare I say) more involvement around the goalline....

CJ scored 9 rushing touchdowns last season. How many more can you expect from him in 2009? Unless LenDale White is injured or the Titans team has another crazy good season (but this time against a first place schedule) I don't see it. I can see his total touches increase but not his overall production based as much on team factors as his own situation splitting time.

Even with a first place schedule, I am pretty sure Tennessee will have an easier schedule against the run this year than last. IIRC, they play the AFC West and NFC West this year, and their own division is nothing special against the run. The only truly tough rush D they will face is Pittsburgh. Last year, they played 4 top 10 rush defenses: Minnesota, Chicago, Baltimore and Pittsburgh. (and, of course, Detroit, which helped.)

 

[FantasyTrader]

Well, I guess it is up to me to provide the contrarian viewpoint...

First, let me say that I am not knocking the guy. He is a playmaker and will clearly be successful.

HOWEVER... any talk of him being top 5 or top 3 is very premature, imo. The two most common comparisons made when talking about CJ is Westbrook and Tiki Barber. From what I have seen, both of those guys were more natural receivers and had better builds, that is, they carried more weight in their legs.

Westy and Tiki both put on some weight over their careers, and perhaps CJ can as well, but I am mildly skeptical. CJ has the look of a guy that isn't going to put on bulk. As such, he will never have the power necessary to be a goal line guy, which will limit his upside. It has been mentioned that he breaks tackles, but over 140 of his 251 regular season rushed went for 3 or fewer yards... and there were too many negative yardage carries. I didn't see a guy that broke tackles when I watched him. He broke some tackles, but he wen't down about as easy as most 200 lb players. Tackle-breaking is a function of size, density, and leg strength, and CJ has none of these, imo.

That leads me to my next point: CJ's rushing success will be somewhat dependent on his offensive line. Duh, that's true for all RBs. Well, Tennessee had a very good O-line last year, and that buoyed CJ's rushing stats. That should be true this year as well, but if CJ doesn't have those huge holes (and there were a lot of big ones) to run through, he won't have as many big plays, and that will lower his ypc and TD total.

Speaking of TD total, it's likely that CJ will be up and down from year to year. He had 10 last year, but only 2 of those were from inside 5 yards. It's hard to score from outside of 10 yards as a RB, that's just a simple fact in the NFL. Without double digit TDs, CJ will not be top 5. Frankly, he will likely need 14+ TDs to reach top 5; it is possible, but I would put the over/under for his TDs at about 7.

I also think CJ has good hands, but not Tiki or Westy hands. He'll get 50+ catches, but I think it's unlikely that he gets the 70+ that is necessary for him to leap into the top 5 RBs. One would think that CJ will improve on his 6 yards per catch, and he will certainly need to to get into the top 5. BUT... until Tennessee gets some passing game threats, teams are going to shadow CJ in the flat. This will especially be true if Tenn targets CJ a lot more; CJ is their biggest threat, and teams will treat him as such. Kerry Collins is no McNabb, and Tennessee's WRs don't even have an Amani Toomer level guy.

My last concern is from a dynasty perspective. He is a smallish guy, so there is always the injury specter lurking. He has decent elusiveness, but not the kind that will keep him from taking shots. More carries will lead to him possibly wearing down and that makes an injury more likely. I am of the firm conviction that ALL RBs get hurt, and the best ones play hurt.... but CJs game is built exclusively on his elite speed, so any nagging injuries can reduce his effectiveness more than a RB that is more well rounded.

All that being said, I fully believe Chris Johnson is a fantasy RB1. I would put him in the 7-12 range. I think about 90-110 yards per game is the right range, but lack of TD upside will hold him back. IF he can get into that 14+ TD range, watch out.

But I just don't see ELITE when I watch him.

Nice post. You bring up some great points. But I can't agree with your bottom line analysis based on your thoughts of Johnson as a RB. You say, no way is he top 5 but he's a #1 RB "in the 7-12 range". Do you realize the fantasy pts. seperating 5th and 7th in high performance scoring systems can often be counted on one hand? And the difference between 5th and 12th in my league in '08 was 25.8 FP. That's a difference of about 150 yds, 1 TD and a couple of rec. over the course of 16 games.I can't really understand your rationale bolded below either. It's as if you're saying, "If Tennessee's line regresses, his numbers will suffer". Though we have nothing to indicate that will happen and that's just a general truth for ANY RB. Otherwise good stuff.

That leads me to my next point: CJ's rushing success will be somewhat dependent on his offensive line. Duh, that's true for all RBs. Well, Tennessee had a very good O-line last year, and that buoyed CJ's rushing stats. That should be true this year as well, but if CJ doesn't have those huge holes (and there were a lot of big ones) to run through, he won't have as many big plays, and that will lower his ypc and TD total.

 

[identikit]

Well, I guess it is up to me to provide the contrarian viewpoint...

First, let me say that I am not knocking the guy. He is a playmaker and will clearly be successful.

HOWEVER... any talk of him being top 5 or top 3 is very premature, imo. The two most common comparisons made when talking about CJ is Westbrook and Tiki Barber. From what I have seen, both of those guys were more natural receivers and had better builds, that is, they carried more weight in their legs.

Westy and Tiki both put on some weight over their careers, and perhaps CJ can as well, but I am mildly skeptical. CJ has the look of a guy that isn't going to put on bulk. As such, he will never have the power necessary to be a goal line guy, which will limit his upside. It has been mentioned that he breaks tackles, but over 140 of his 251 regular season rushed went for 3 or fewer yards... and there were too many negative yardage carries. I didn't see a guy that broke tackles when I watched him. He broke some tackles, but he wen't down about as easy as most 200 lb players. Tackle-breaking is a function of size, density, and leg strength, and CJ has none of these, imo.

That leads me to my next point: CJ's rushing success will be somewhat dependent on his offensive line. Duh, that's true for all RBs. Well, Tennessee had a very good O-line last year, and that buoyed CJ's rushing stats. That should be true this year as well, but if CJ doesn't have those huge holes (and there were a lot of big ones) to run through, he won't have as many big plays, and that will lower his ypc and TD total.

Speaking of TD total, it's likely that CJ will be up and down from year to year. He had 10 last year, but only 2 of those were from inside 5 yards. It's hard to score from outside of 10 yards as a RB, that's just a simple fact in the NFL. Without double digit TDs, CJ will not be top 5. Frankly, he will likely need 14+ TDs to reach top 5; it is possible, but I would put the over/under for his TDs at about 7.

I also think CJ has good hands, but not Tiki or Westy hands. He'll get 50+ catches, but I think it's unlikely that he gets the 70+ that is necessary for him to leap into the top 5 RBs. One would think that CJ will improve on his 6 yards per catch, and he will certainly need to to get into the top 5. BUT... until Tennessee gets some passing game threats, teams are going to shadow CJ in the flat. This will especially be true if Tenn targets CJ a lot more; CJ is their biggest threat, and teams will treat him as such. Kerry Collins is no McNabb, and Tennessee's WRs don't even have an Amani Toomer level guy.

My last concern is from a dynasty perspective. He is a smallish guy, so there is always the injury specter lurking. He has decent elusiveness, but not the kind that will keep him from taking shots. More carries will lead to him possibly wearing down and that makes an injury more likely. I am of the firm conviction that ALL RBs get hurt, and the best ones play hurt.... but CJs game is built exclusively on his elite speed, so any nagging injuries can reduce his effectiveness more than a RB that is more well rounded.

All that being said, I fully believe Chris Johnson is a fantasy RB1. I would put him in the 7-12 range. I think about 90-110 yards per game is the right range, but lack of TD upside will hold him back. IF he can get into that 14+ TD range, watch out.

But I just don't see ELITE when I watch him.

Nice post. You bring up some great points. But I can't agree with your bottom line analysis based on your thoughts of Johnson as a RB. You say, no way is he top 5 but he's a #1 RB "in the 7-12 range". Do you realize the fantasy pts. seperating 5th and 7th in high performance scoring systems can often be counted on one hand? And the difference between 5th and 12th in my league in '08 was 25.8 FP. That's a difference of about 150 yds, 1 TD and a couple of rec. over the course of 16 games.I can't really understand your rationale bolded below either. It's as if you're saying, "If Tennessee's line regresses, his numbers will suffer". Though we have nothing to indicate that will happen and that's just a general truth for ANY RB. Otherwise good stuff.

That leads me to my next point: CJ's rushing success will be somewhat dependent on his offensive line. Duh, that's true for all RBs. Well, Tennessee had a very good O-line last year, and that buoyed CJ's rushing stats. That should be true this year as well, but if CJ doesn't have those huge holes (and there were a lot of big ones) to run through, he won't have as many big plays, and that will lower his ypc and TD total.

I think CJ3's future production is largely in the hands of the Titans' coaching staff.Their offensive imagination (or lack thereof) will limit him more than any ability he has. This is a guy who played an entire year as a wide receiver in college. In PPR that should be gold (platinum even).

I understand that Fisher is more about just winning games, but if CJ3 is used dynamically (last season they barely scratched the surface IMO), he should beat last year's production convincingly.

I know, that's a BIG if.

Just my

 

[mikel0254]

It seems like throughout the offseason, CJ is one of the only running backs where the coaches are saying they are getting them MORE involved. I think we'll see an improved CJ this year, with (dare I say) more involvement around the goalline....

CJ scored 9 rushing touchdowns last season. How many more can you expect from him in 2009? Unless LenDale White is injured or the Titans team has another crazy good season (but this time against a first place schedule) I don't see it. I can see his total touches increase but not his overall production based as much on team factors as his own situation splitting time.

Yes, and White had 15 rushing TD's. Everything that has been said up to this point has been they will get CJ more involved and White less. It's entirely conceivable that CJ's rushing TD's increase.ETA - Also, remember CJ didn't play week 17 because the Titans already wrapped up the playoffs (and home field I think). If you think the Titans will regress, you have to factor in CJ playing one more game (add 100 total yards and maybe a TD to your projections)

Only if your league is active in week 17, and most people's aren't I would think.

Good point

 

[rodgev]

Its a big if but if the passing game gets any sort upgrade and teams have to keep that safety back or hesitate before attacking the running lanes... this guy could be the best running back in the leauge stat wise.

 

[Devine Intervention]

Its a big if but if the passing game gets any sort upgrade and teams have to keep that safety back or hesitate before attacking the running lanes... this guy could be the best running back in the leauge stat wise.

 

[Devine Intervention]

Its a big if but if the passing game gets any sort upgrade and teams have to keep that safety back or hesitate before attacking the running lanes... this guy could be the best running back in the leauge stat wise.

This is silly that people are talking about CJ3 like this. He finished with the same stats as Forte, Stewart, Slaton.... and yet this guy, in the Tenn offense is about to emerge as the best back in fantasy football??? How do you like his situation or talent anymore than that of any 3 or those RBs, and add McFadden to that mix too and thats just his own class of RBs. I watched alot of his games and it was alot of him going through a huge hole and running fast. Most RBs in the national football league do well in space so thats not a surprise. He's by far the most overrated fantasy player there is. For example, Slaton, who is in a better situation and just as talented is slated to be picked ten to fifteen picks later than Johnson in dynasty drafts. Maybe Johnson out performs him, maybe not, but by no means will he out produce Slaton by that margin. Either Slaton is ranked too low or Johnson is too high, and I think its Johnson too high. Johson benefited from a team that had to opp to run the ball way more than usual and a line who did well with it. And watch the tape and how many times Tenn had 3rd and long and didnt want to pass so they did a draw to Johnson and picked up ten to fifteen bogus yards. When they actually need to start passing and not just doing draws and depending on defense, his production will go way down. Expect close to the same amount of carries for next year, less ypc and less TDs. 260car 1150yrds 6TDs 35rec 200yrds 1TD

 

[Banger]

Its a big if but if the passing game gets any sort upgrade and teams have to keep that safety back or hesitate before attacking the running lanes... this guy could be the best running back in the leauge stat wise.

This is silly that people are talking about CJ3 like this. He finished with the same stats as Forte, Stewart, Slaton.... and yet this guy, in the Tenn offense is about to emerge as the best back in fantasy football??? How do you like his situation or talent anymore than that of any 3 or those RBs, and add McFadden to that mix too and thats just his own class of RBs. I watched alot of his games and it was alot of him going through a huge hole and running fast. Most RBs in the national football league do well in space so thats not a surprise. He's by far the most overrated fantasy player there is. For example, Slaton, who is in a better situation and just as talented is slated to be picked ten to fifteen picks later than Johnson in dynasty drafts. Maybe Johnson out performs him, maybe not, but by no means will he out produce Slaton by that margin. Either Slaton is ranked too low or Johnson is too high, and I think its Johnson too high. Johson benefited from a team that had to opp to run the ball way more than usual and a line who did well with it. And watch the tape and how many times Tenn had 3rd and long and didnt want to pass so they did a draw to Johnson and picked up ten to fifteen bogus yards. When they actually need to start passing and not just doing draws and depending on defense, his production will go way down. Expect close to the same amount of carries for next year, less ypc and less TDs. 260car 1150yrds 6TDs 35rec 200yrds 1TD

you're far off the mark. Johnson was the Titans offense. He faced 8-9 men in the box every single week. He marched his team down the red zone, time after time after time which led to about 12 vultured TD's. He's just scratching the surface in terms of his ability and their use for him in the offense. Why would the Titans not continue to run the ball a ton? That's what Fisher does every year. They only reason CJ wasn't the top back last year was White.

 

[loose circuits]

wow a lot of one sided opinions on this subject.

Chris Johnson is a freak. He's lightning fast and unlike Chris Henry, is speed actually translates on the football fieldl. As someone said he played a ton of WR in college. Looking at Heimerdinger's resume tells me that he's seen enough football to understand how to use this guy. With an off season to dream up wrinkles, I think they will get him on the field more and use him as a WR, in the slot, etc... Have him and Lendale line-up at the same time in which teams will need to respect the run, then put him in motion, etc... I think safeties may have trouble covering him 1-on-1. The mismatches they can create are unlimited. Having Lendale as that other back is not a bad thing either. It's too bad Norm Chow isn't still in Tenn cause he could just dial up his old USC playbook with Reggie Bush/Lendale. Either way, I'm sure the Titans staff will be watching plenty of Payton's offense as well.

For the crowd that says Titans defense will be weaker= less rushing yards. This argument has no basis evaluating Chris Johnson. If the Titans are behind and throwing, who is going to be impacted? My guess would be the RB that doesn't catch passes. Johnson would just end up with more receptions and receiving yardage in this scenario. Lendale White's value would tumble though...

For the skepticism about the Titans OL. Who do you think this would impact? The guy that needs a small crack to dart through or the big bruiser? Johnson can also get the ball in space. Not to mention, outside of losing Jacob Bell there is no reason to think the OL will regress.

For the guy that compared him to the other rookies. I'll take Tenn's O over the Raiders every Sunday/Mon. Stewart has to deal with Deangelo or I would probably like him as much. Forte is a good comparison. Houston is going to add a running mate to Slaton. Let's not forget who is running the show in Houston. For those that swear against Denver RB's, should understand Kubiak's 'history'....on the other hand, all you are hearing out of Tenn is that they are using the offense to get Johnson more involved. You could make the argument that Heimerdinger is from the same cloth since he also worked with Shanny...but I would point to 2005 Jets team where the starting RB's got all of the carries (CMart then CHouston) and 2000-2004 Titans when George got the bulk

 

[Routilla]

I think he may be on the field more but I don't know how many more touches we should expect. He should be a good decoy for the passing game using play-action IMO.

 

[eagles2007]

in a total redraft league, i'd suggest everyone be extremely careful when drafting johnson. i like him a lot, and in my keeper league, i'll be very happy if he manages another year similar to last year. he's my no. 3 rb behind peterson and turner (i can start all 3). in a redraft, i think you have to rate him in the 10-12 range at RB. any higher than that, you probably have to cross your fingers and pray that everything falls into place for his improvement. be realistic, not necessarily optimistic.

 

[Lott's Fingertip]

Nice post. You bring up some great points. But I can't agree with your bottom line analysis based on your thoughts of Johnson as a RB. You say, no way is he top 5 but he's a #1 RB "in the 7-12 range". Do you realize the fantasy pts. seperating 5th and 7th in high performance scoring systems can often be counted on one hand? And the difference between 5th and 12th in my league in '08 was 25.8 FP. That's a difference of about 150 yds, 1 TD and a couple of rec. over the course of 16 games.

I can't really understand your rationale bolded below either. It's as if you're saying, "If Tennessee's line regresses, his numbers will suffer". Though we have nothing to indicate that will happen and that's just a general truth for ANY RB. Otherwise good stuff.

That leads me to my next point: CJ's rushing success will be somewhat dependent on his offensive line. Duh, that's true for all RBs. Well, Tennessee had a very good O-line last year, and that buoyed CJ's rushing stats. That should be true this year as well, but if CJ doesn't have those huge holes (and there were a lot of big ones) to run through, he won't have as many big plays, and that will lower his ypc and TD total.

In the final, year-end stats the #7-12 may be just a few points behind the top 5, but that is often simply due to injuries.I don't think that CJ is a top 5 fantasy RB heading into a draft. I don't think he will get enough TD opportunities to get there, except by default if he stays healthy and several guys get hurt.

My ranking does not take into account PPR. CJ is better in that format, since PPR dilutes the value of real stats, yards and TDs.

~~~

To expand on my point about Tenn not being as good if their defense takes a step back... Somebody else in this thread said it well: if the defense does not serve up shorter fields due to three-and-outs and turnovers, the offense will not be on the field as much or have as many opportunities to score. It's not necessarily a matter of Tenn playing from behind where CJ will still get a lot of use in the passing game, it's a matter of Tenn running fewer plays, so CJ may by default get fewer opportunities, especially fewer opportunities in the opponent's territory.

~~~

To be clear, I am NOT a CJ hater at all. He is a playmaker. I just don't think his elite speed makes him an elite fantasy RB. Very good, yes. Just not a superstud.

From a dynasty perspective I would be a bit wary of him wearing down or getting injured over time due to his smaller stature. It's not a given that this will happen, but it's something to keep in mind, imo.

 

[corpcow]

Personally, I don't think Johnson has even scratched the surface of what's he's capable of, what he did last year is very likely his floor. I wouldn't be shocked if he was the #1 RB in the NFL this season. He looks like a more explosive Brian Westbrook at times.

What makes you say this? Did you draft him last year based on talent and actually expect him to do well? Not trying to be a smart ###, but it makes me laugh sometimes how people think he can only get better and better when they are only basing it off of last season. A lot of people expected him to be more of just a combine wonder with lots of speed. Now Im sure there are some folks that drafted him expecting him to do well, but those are most likely people that followed him in college. Me personally, I know only what I saw last year and would be impressed if he came close to what he did last year. I dont think they play the Lions again this year.

I actually traded the draft pick last year (1.09) to move down. Sucks for me.

After watching a lot of film on him at ECU (and following Sigmund et al), I drafted I drafted him in every league I could get my hands on him. He shows great vision and amazing balance. Yes, he has elite speed (4.24 :bugeyes but perhaps more importantly he gets up to speed quickly. I don't have the numbers in front of me, but as I posted in another thread of him, his 10 yard split represented the smallest % of his total 40. In other words, he was he was almost evenly distributed over the 40, running at a consistenly fast speed, whereas most other RBs were like 15-18% in the beginning and got faster for the last 20 yards.Tenn also didn't give him the ball that much in space last year, something they already said they wanted to do this year. Much of those numbers came from regular and inside runs. Teams knew he was a breakaway candidate and tried to keep him in check - and much of those runs weren't 80 yard breaks. He consistently broke 10, 20, 30 yard runs. AND he's a threat to take it to the house at any point.

CJ is the real deal. He will improve and be a top 3-5 kind of guy IMO, and there were a number of us saying that before he did anything last year. "Having tape on him" isn't going to help catch him and his 4.24. NFL defenders take what they think are good angles and he just blows by them. He's 10 yards downfield before the play even develops sometimes.

College highlights:

ROokie season highlights: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6nQOzhq0iE...feature=related

 

[corpcow]

To expand on my point about Tenn not being as good if their defense takes a step back... Somebody else in this thread said it well: if the defense does not serve up shorter fields due to three-and-outs and turnovers, the offense will not be on the field as much or have as many opportunities to score. It's not necessarily a matter of Tenn playing from behind where CJ will still get a lot of use in the passing game, it's a matter of Tenn running fewer plays, so CJ may by default get fewer opportunities, especially fewer opportunities in the opponent's territory.

I'm not sure I agree with that analysis. CJ didn't score because of short fields - if anything, it is White who stands to benefit from short fields. If their defense regresses, this means that they will need to open the offense up more on a longer field. This benefits CJ who is by far their most dynamic playmaker, and also a good receiver (despite a few drops this year). See, e.g., that sick catch he made at his ankles in the rookie highlights I posted above).

To be clear, I am NOT a CJ hater at all. He is a playmaker. I just don't think his elite speed makes him an elite fantasy RB. Very good, yes. Just not a superstud.From a dynasty perspective I would be a bit wary of him wearing down or getting injured over time due to his smaller stature. It's not a given that this will happen, but it's something to keep in mind, imo.

I agree that his elite speed alone won't make him elite - there are many guys in the NFL with great straight-line speed. But you have to watch the kid play - he has amazing balance and vision to go with that elite speed. He also, as I mentioned, gets up to top speed almost immediately, unlike many who just test well in the 40. THAT is why he will be special in this league.

 

[Banger]

wow a lot of one sided opinions on this subject.Chris Johnson is a freak. He's lightning fast and unlike Chris Henry, is speed actually translates on the football fieldl. As someone said he played a ton of WR in college. Looking at Heimerdinger's resume tells me that he's seen enough football to understand how to use this guy. With an off season to dream up wrinkles, I think they will get him on the field more and use him as a WR, in the slot, etc... Have him and Lendale line-up at the same time in which teams will need to respect the run, then put him in motion, etc... I think safeties may have trouble covering him 1-on-1. The mismatches they can create are unlimited. Having Lendale as that other back is not a bad thing either. It's too bad Norm Chow isn't still in Tenn cause he could just dial up his old USC playbook with Reggie Bush/Lendale. Either way, I'm sure the Titans staff will be watching plenty of Payton's offense as well.For the crowd that says Titans defense will be weaker= less rushing yards. This argument has no basis evaluating Chris Johnson. If the Titans are behind and throwing, who is going to be impacted? My guess would be the RB that doesn't catch passes. Johnson would just end up with more receptions and receiving yardage in this scenario. Lendale White's value would tumble though...For the skepticism about the Titans OL. Who do you think this would impact? The guy that needs a small crack to dart through or the big bruiser? Johnson can also get the ball in space. Not to mention, outside of losing Jacob Bell there is no reason to think the OL will regress.For the guy that compared him to the other rookies. I'll take Tenn's O over the Raiders every Sunday/Mon. Stewart has to deal with Deangelo or I would probably like him as much. Forte is a good comparison. Houston is going to add a running mate to Slaton. Let's not forget who is running the show in Houston. For those that swear against Denver RB's, should understand Kubiak's 'history'....on the other hand, all you are hearing out of Tenn is that they are using the offense to get Johnson more involved. You could make the argument that Heimerdinger is from the same cloth since he also worked with Shanny...but I would point to 2005 Jets team where the starting RB's got all of the carries (CMart then CHouston) and 2000-2004 Titans when George got the bulk

 

[loose circuits]

To expand on my point about Tenn not being as good if their defense takes a step back... Somebody else in this thread said it well: if the defense does not serve up shorter fields due to three-and-outs and turnovers, the offense will not be on the field as much or have as many opportunities to score. It's not necessarily a matter of Tenn playing from behind where CJ will still get a lot of use in the passing game, it's a matter of Tenn running fewer plays, so CJ may by default get fewer opportunities, especially fewer opportunities in the opponent's territory.

I'm not sure I agree with that analysis. CJ didn't score because of short fields - if anything, it is White who stands to benefit from short fields. If their defense regresses, this means that they will need to open the offense up more on a longer field. This benefits CJ who is by far their most dynamic playmaker, and also a good receiver (despite a few drops this year). See, e.g., that sick catch he made at his ankles in the rookie highlights I posted above).

To be clear, I am NOT a CJ hater at all. He is a playmaker. I just don't think his elite speed makes him an elite fantasy RB. Very good, yes. Just not a superstud.From a dynasty perspective I would be a bit wary of him wearing down or getting injured over time due to his smaller stature. It's not a given that this will happen, but it's something to keep in mind, imo.

I agree that his elite speed alone won't make him elite - there are many guys in the NFL with great straight-line speed. But you have to watch the kid play - he has amazing balance and vision to go with that elite speed. He also, as I mentioned, gets up to top speed almost immediately, unlike many who just test well in the 40. THAT is why he will be special in this league.

short fields impact White a lot more than CJ. He can take it the distance on any play, so the 'long' fields could just mean more opportunities to gain huge chunks of yards.His speed does freakishly translate on the NFL field. It's pretty amazing to watch the kid play.

 

[Lott's Fingertip]

7 out of CJ's 10 TDs came inside the red zone, an 8th came from 21 yards out, and the last 2 were long ones. Fewer opportunities in your opponent's territory most definitely affects all the offensive players.

But we're getting stuck on the "short field" argument.

If the Tenn defense takes a step back, they will not force 3 and outs. If Tennessee's opponents' offenses are on the field more, that means Tenn's offense is on the field LESS. Fewer opportunities = less production for the ENTIRE offense, including CJ. Its just simple math.

~~~

The possibility of the defense taking a step back is just an ancillary argument, though. Its only a small part of the equation, not meant to be a deciding factor as to whether or not CJ will be better or worse in 2009. And its not a given that the defense will be substantively worse. Just another possible factor.

 

[lyon812]

To expand on my point about Tenn not being as good if their defense takes a step back... Somebody else in this thread said it well: if the defense does not serve up shorter fields due to three-and-outs and turnovers, the offense will not be on the field as much or have as many opportunities to score. It's not necessarily a matter of Tenn playing from behind where CJ will still get a lot of use in the passing game, it's a matter of Tenn running fewer plays, so CJ may by default get fewer opportunities, especially fewer opportunities in the opponent's territory.

I'm not sure I agree with that analysis. CJ didn't score because of short fields - if anything, it is White who stands to benefit from short fields. If their defense regresses, this means that they will need to open the offense up more on a longer field. This benefits CJ who is by far their most dynamic playmaker, and also a good receiver (despite a few drops this year). See, e.g., that sick catch he made at his ankles in the rookie highlights I posted above).

To be clear, I am NOT a CJ hater at all. He is a playmaker. I just don't think his elite speed makes him an elite fantasy RB. Very good, yes. Just not a superstud.

From a dynasty perspective I would be a bit wary of him wearing down or getting injured over time due to his smaller stature. It's not a given that this will happen, but it's something to keep in mind, imo.

I agree that his elite speed alone won't make him elite - there are many guys in the NFL with great straight-line speed. But you have to watch the kid play - he has amazing balance and vision to go with that elite speed. He also, as I mentioned, gets up to top speed almost immediately, unlike many who just test well in the 40. THAT is why he will be special in this league.

short fields impact White a lot more than CJ. He can take it the distance on any play, so the 'long' fields could just mean more opportunities to gain huge chunks of yards.

His speed does freakishly translate on the NFL field. It's pretty amazing to watch the kid play.

It should be pointed out that he was only 7th in 20+ yard runs. It would seem that if other teams were consistently stacking tons in the box, that he'd be able to blow past the initial line and have significantly more success on long runs. This wasn't the case last year.Peterson 20, Williams 15, Portis/Slaton 13, Jacobs 12, Turner 11, Johnson 9--and there were 5 guys with 8 (Forte, Gore, KSmith, Stewart, Ward).

 

[corpcow]

It should be pointed out that he was only 7th in 20+ yard runs. It would seem that if other teams were consistently stacking tons in the box, that he'd be able to blow past the initial line and have significantly more success on long runs. This wasn't the case last year.Peterson 20, Williams 15, Portis/Slaton 13, Jacobs 12, Turner 11, Johnson 9--and there were 5 guys with 8 (Forte, Gore, KSmith, Stewart, Ward).

It should also be pointed out that Johnson also had fewer rushes than all ahead of him except Jacobs. Only 2 rookies on that list and certainly Slaton had a more open offense (and was perhaps used better) than Johnson. In fact, I'd say everyone on that list had a better passing offense to open things up. I only saw a handful of Titans games (and clips of whatever else I could catch), but it certainly seemed like teams respected his speed and weren't stacking the box when CJ was there. (We might see more stacking the box if him and Lendale are in the same backfield, which wasn't the case often last year).

 

[Banger]

7 out of CJ's 10 TDs came inside the red zone, an 8th came from 21 yards out, and the last 2 were long ones. Fewer opportunities in your opponent's territory most definitely affects all the offensive players.But we're getting stuck on the "short field" argument.If the Tenn defense takes a step back, they will not force 3 and outs. If Tennessee's opponents' offenses are on the field more, that means Tenn's offense is on the field LESS. Fewer opportunities = less production for the ENTIRE offense, including CJ. Its just simple math.~~~The possibility of the defense taking a step back is just an ancillary argument, though. Its only a small part of the equation, not meant to be a deciding factor as to whether or not CJ will be better or worse in 2009. And its not a given that the defense will be substantively worse. Just another possible factor.

But if they are in closer games it be fewer carries for White not Johnson. Johnson is their offense, White is the one for big potential reductions, not Johnson.

 

[Banger]

It should be pointed out that he was only 7th in 20+ yard runs. It would seem that if other teams were consistently stacking tons in the box, that he'd be able to blow past the initial line and have significantly more success on long runs. This wasn't the case last year.Peterson 20, Williams 15, Portis/Slaton 13, Jacobs 12, Turner 11, Johnson 9--and there were 5 guys with 8 (Forte, Gore, KSmith, Stewart, Ward).

It should also be pointed out that Johnson also had fewer rushes than all ahead of him except Jacobs. Only 2 rookies on that list and certainly Slaton had a more open offense (and was perhaps used better) than Johnson. In fact, I'd say everyone on that list had a better passing offense to open things up. I only saw a handful of Titans games (and clips of whatever else I could catch), but it certainly seemed like teams respected his speed and weren't stacking the box when CJ was there. (We might see more stacking the box if him and Lendale are in the same backfield, which wasn't the case often last year).

Johnson faced 8 sometimes 9 in the box on a weekly basis. Their lack of a passing game allowed it. Hopefully they are able to add a Holt or someone of his caliber to offer a little bit of a threat because he would be devastating if he faced the fronts that Slaton or other teams that weren't the target of the opposition faced.

 

[two_dollars]

wow.. lots of CJ owners in here!

 

[BoulderBob]

Personally, I don't think Johnson has even scratched the surface of what's he's capable of, what he did last year is very likely his floor. I wouldn't be shocked if he was the #1 RB in the NFL this season. He looks like a more explosive Brian Westbrook at times.

What makes you say this? Did you draft him last year based on talent and actually expect him to do well? Not trying to be a smart ###, but it makes me laugh sometimes how people think he can only get better and better when they are only basing it off of last season. A lot of people expected him to be more of just a combine wonder with lots of speed. Now Im sure there are some folks that drafted him expecting him to do well, but those are most likely people that followed him in college. Me personally, I know only what I saw last year and would be impressed if he came close to what he did last year. I dont think they play the Lions again this year.

I actually traded the draft pick last year (1.09) to move down. Sucks for me.

Yes, I thought Johnson would be very good last year, I didn't expect him to be the best RB in the draft class but I had him in the top-3. I also believe last year's RB class was the best one I can remember in the 10 years I've followed the draft, even better than 2001. Based of what I thought before the 08' draft and what happened last season, I think CJ3 is going to be the best of last year's class and maybe the NFL.CJ3 can score from anywhere, has underrated power and has very good hands and will be used as a pass catcher more often than he was a year ago. Also, he faced nothing but 8 and sometimes even 9 man fronts for almost all of last year.

Johnson, IMO, had the most impressive performance of last season by any RB in that playoff game against what I believed was the best defense of 2008. 100 yards in a half against the Ravens? What's not to like?

I realize I'm a bigger far than most, but in all honesty, if I have the 1st pick in a dynasty start up draft, I don't take Peterson or Fitz(who isn't even my #1 WR) I take Chris Johnson.

I mentioned that he was like a faster Westbrook, but really a more accurate comparison could be a young Marshall Faulk.

How someone can not have have CJ3 as a top-5 RB is beyond me.

Don't get me wrong, talent-wise CJ3 is a top 5 RB, but in a keeper format I don't have him ranked that high due to my belief that his legs(unlike Westbrook's tree trunks) will not be long for the NFL. Ride him while you can, imo...

 

[Banger]

wow.. lots of CJ owners in here!

I own CJ because I like him, I don't like him because I own him.

 

[FantasyTrader]

wow.. lots of CJ owners in here!

Looks like many who passed on him in here too!

 

[loose circuits]

wow.. lots of CJ owners in here!

I own CJ because I like him, I don't like him because I own him.

yep, I specifically traded down to 1.7 to draft him. It's not a surprise there are tons of Johnson haters on this board. I remember everyone was pretty slow to jump on the train last season. I kept asking for him in the early dynasty rookie polls because he wasn't even mentioned in them. I like him before, I like him now, and I will continue to like him until he disappoints (hopefully that is not for 5-8 years).Only regret is I didn't grab him in enough redrafts- thought I could outsmart the other teams and he was plucked a round before.

 

[Lott's Fingertip]

yep, I specifically traded down to 1.7 to draft him. It's not a surprise there are tons of Johnson haters on this board. I remember everyone was pretty slow to jump on the train last season. I kept asking for him in the early dynasty rookie polls because he wasn't even mentioned in them. I like him before, I like him now, and I will continue to like him until he disappoints (hopefully that is not for 5-8 years).

Only regret is I didn't grab him in enough redrafts- thought I could outsmart the other teams and he was plucked a round before.

Who are the haters?!? I'm one of the naysayers (relatively speaking), but I see very few CJ naysayers on this board.I jumped in to balance out the CJ lovefest.

 

[Tanner9919]

Personally, I don't think Johnson has even scratched the surface of what's he's capable of, what he did last year is very likely his floor. I wouldn't be shocked if he was the #1 RB in the NFL this season. He looks like a more explosive Brian Westbrook at times.

What makes you say this? Did you draft him last year based on talent and actually expect him to do well? Not trying to be a smart ###, but it makes me laugh sometimes how people think he can only get better and better when they are only basing it off of last season. A lot of people expected him to be more of just a combine wonder with lots of speed. Now Im sure there are some folks that drafted him expecting him to do well, but those are most likely people that followed him in college. Me personally, I know only what I saw last year and would be impressed if he came close to what he did last year. I dont think they play the Lions again this year.

I actually traded the draft pick last year (1.09) to move down. Sucks for me.

Titans played an easy schedule, at least much easier than the one they will play this season

 

[loose circuits]

Personally, I don't think Johnson has even scratched the surface of what's he's capable of, what he did last year is very likely his floor. I wouldn't be shocked if he was the #1 RB in the NFL this season. He looks like a more explosive Brian Westbrook at times.

What makes you say this? Did you draft him last year based on talent and actually expect him to do well? Not trying to be a smart ###, but it makes me laugh sometimes how people think he can only get better and better when they are only basing it off of last season. A lot of people expected him to be more of just a combine wonder with lots of speed. Now Im sure there are some folks that drafted him expecting him to do well, but those are most likely people that followed him in college. Me personally, I know only what I saw last year and would be impressed if he came close to what he did last year. I dont think they play the Lions again this year.

I actually traded the draft pick last year (1.09) to move down. Sucks for me.

Titans played an easy schedule, at least much easier than the one they will play this season

the difference between a combine wonder with lots of speed like Chris Henry who never did anything on the college level and a guy like Chris Johnson who tore it up in college is huge. Not sure who you are referring to when you say "a lot of people". My guess is you should probably say "I" or myself and the rest of the Chris Johnson haters...I certainly didn't see the Chris Henry comparisons when the combine numbers are actually backed up with game film and production on the field.

The schedule difficulty means a lot more for Lendale White then it does for Chris Johnson. The tougher the games, less closing out Lendale will do and more balls Chris Johnson will end up with in the end. Not sure how that is relevant