He clearly earned it. The Dolphins are set to promote running back Duke Johnson to the active roster (Twitter link via Adam Schefter of ESPN.com).
Johnson, 28, spent much of the year on the workout circuit. After auditions for the 49ers, Panthers and Saints didn’t result in deals, he settled for a practice squad contract with the Dolphins in October. On Sunday, in his first start of 2021, Johnson torched the Jets for 107 rushing yards and two touchdowns off of 22 carries. The Dolphins — against some creative play calling from the Jets — won 31-24, advancing to 7-7 on the year.
Johnson was the focal point of the Dolphins’ offense, even though Myles Gaskin and Salvon Ahmed were cleared in time to play. Elevated in place of Phillip Lindsay, who was still held out due to COVID-19 protocols, the veteran kept the chains moving throughout the afternoon.
Historically, Johnson has been known for his pass-catching ability, as shown by his 400+ receiving yards in each of his first five seasons. But, on Sunday, he did most of the damage with his feet, save for a 20-yard grab in the third quarter. He might just be the bell cow moving forward as the Dolphins scrap for a playoff berth. The AFC East may be out of reach, but the ‘Fins still have a 10% chance at capturing a Wild Card spot, per Five Thirty Eight.
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