Bucs Open Practice Window For Skill Player

During training camp Johnson was one of the most electrifying players throughout the summer and into the fall. He had exceptional quickness and footwork, finding ways to get open and win his matchups. Plus, him being an undrafted free agent from Barton College, a school that not many had heard of, only added to the story.

The only problem was that the undersized Johnson missed several days of practice and two preseason games because he was injured often. Nonetheless, Johnson’s skillset impressed Tampa Bay enough to still keep him on the roster after cuts following the last preseason game going into the regular season.

Johnson played seldomly during the regular season until his ankle injury flared up again. He played a total of 40 offensive snaps in four games, having one rushing attempt for no gain and no receptions for on just one target. Johnson also played 20 snaps on special teams having one punt return for 11 yards in the season opener against the Commanders.

It’s at punt and kick return in particular where Johnson may end up finding a role in his return. Sean Tucker and Rakim Jarrett have been handling kick return duties as of late, but with Bucky Irving’s status in question and Tucker potentially getting asked to do more at running back, it wouldn’t hurt to use the speedy Johnson back there to entice a big play.

Punt return might even be the best spot by him. The role is currently occupied by Trey Palmer, but there’s been almost no production from the position. He’s had nine punt returns for 94 yards, averaging 10.4 yards per return and a long of 17. Palmer hasn’t been able to flip the field position like Tampa Bay would have preferred. Inserting Johnson on punts may at least provide a spark to a special teams area that has room for improvement.

It’ll be intriguing to see if Johnson is used much on offense in his return. He has top level speed, and with the Bucs’ favoritism towards screens and swing passes, this could be an aspect that he excels at if done right. With the Bucs averaging almost 28 points per game, adding extra pieces would essentially be a bonus to the group.