In Terry Pluto’s latest column he writes that the Browns will most likely part ways with linebacker James Michael Johnson. Johnson missed six games due to injury in 2012, but was highly regarded by the previous regime, playing in 45 percent of snaps when healthy.
With 2012 undrafted free agent Craig Robertson looking like the starter along side D’Qwell Jackson at inside linebacker in Ray Horton’s new defense, it appears Johsnon is now on his way to being cut.
Drafted in the fourth round of the 2012 draft out of Nevada, JMJ was injured in the pre season before returning to action in week 5 and making his first career start the following week against San Diego.
After Johnson on the depth chart are second year players L.J. Fort and Tank Carder. Fort and Carder each made their living primarily on special teams during their rookie campaigns playing just 98 and 30 snaps respectively.
While D’Qwell Jackson is as steady as they come on the inside, the lack of depth and experience along side him is a concern for the Browns’ defense.
[Related: Weeden: Browns can be “really, really good” in 2013]
