Former Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Ed Johnson has signed with the Carolina Panthers as he adds depth to the team’s defensive line with his potential and size.
Johnson, who started all 16 NFL regular season games in the 2007 season [his rookie year] was an undrafted player coming out of Penn State. He also played under current Colts defensive coordinator Ron Meeks so the coach is aware of the potential and energy Johnson brings to the team for next season.
“Ed is ecstatic to be back in football with the Carolina Panthers and happy to be reunited with Ron Meeks.” Johnson’s agent Lamont Smith said. Smith stated it is a one-year deal, but hopeful at some point in the future both sides will talk about a long-term deal.
For the Panthers, it would be a wise decision to sign Johnson long term as he would help complement an already stellar defense which would be looking to improve some of their stats from the 2009 NFL regular season. Though the Panthers finished the regular season 9th in points allowed (19.2), 8th in yards allowed (315.8) and 22nd in rush yards allowed (124.8), they were 4th in pass yards allowed (191.0) only behind the New York Jets, Buffalo Bills and Denver Broncos.
With a great defense that includes Julius Peppers, Maake Kemoeatu who is recovering from a ruptured Achilles’ tendon, Jon Beason, Chris Gamble, Tyler Brayton and other top performers, Johnson fits right in.
Though Johnson was cut by the Colts in 2008, he can still perform and would be a great addition to the Panthers opponents in the NFC South; The Super Bowl Champions New Orleans Saints, Atlanta Falcons and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Though the team finished 8-8, Carolina’s is obviously a top tier team defensively. With the addition of Johnson, expect the relationship with Meeks to help his smooth transition into team and also elevate his performance on the field.
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