Cards give Johnson 3-year, $39M contract
The Cardinals signed star running back David Johnson to a three-year extension through the 2021 season.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the deal is for $39 million, including $30 million guaranteed, and can be worth up to $45 million. Johnson will make $1.88 million this season in the final year of his rookie deal.
Coming off a wrist injury that limited him to one game last season, Johnson has rushed for 1,843 yards and 24 touchdowns on 429 attempts in 33 career games. He also has 122 catches for 1,403 yards and eight touchdowns.
Johnson had a huge 2016 season, leading the NFL with 2,118 scrimmage yards (1,239 rushing and 879 receiving). He also led the league with 20 touchdowns, including 16 rushing touchdowns.
Bucs minus top CB Grimes vs. Saints
The Buccaneers will be without top cornerback Brent Grimes on Sunday against the Saints in New Orleans.
Grimes suffered a groin injury during practice Friday and didn’t travel with the team. That leaves a young and inexperienced secondary to defend Drew Brees and one of the league’s top offenses.
Vernon Hargreaves, who fought off rookie Carlton Davis during training camp to keep his job, will be tested against Saints star receiver Michael Thomas. Davis is expected to move into the starting lineup.
Seahawks plan to start Thomas
The Seahawks activated safety Earl Thomas to the 53-man roster and plan to start him Sunday against the Broncos in Denver.
Thomas made it through his first week of practice with no issues after holding out of training camp while seeking an extension or a trade. His deal expires after the season.
The Seahawks also put cornerback Dontae Johnson on injured reserve after he hurt his groin in practice this week. Johnson was expected to start at right cornerback, but rookie Tre Flowers, a converted safety, might do so now.
Bell forfeits first game check
Running back Le’Veon Bell didn’t report to the Steelers before the deadline at 3 p.m. Saturday, meaning he will surrender his Week 1 game check, worth $853,000. James Conner is expected to start for the Steelers, who visit the Browns on Sunday.
Bell hasn’t made a decision on when to report and is taking his situation day by day, according to ESPN. Bell’s agent has suggested that his client is willing to stay away for a lengthy amount of time.
Saints add RB Williams, drop OL Bush
The Saints promoted running back Jonathan Williams to their active roster and released veteran offensive lineman and former Bear Jermon Bushrod.
Williams likely will split time with newly signed veteran Mike Gillislee as the backups to starter Alvin Kamara. Bushrod was battling for a roster spot in an offensive line group that became even more crowded earlier this week, when the Saints re-signed veterans Josh LeRibeus and Michael Ola.
Jets battle injury bug
Jets outside linebacker Josh Martin was ruled out for the game Monday against the Lions in Detroit because of a concussion. Wide receiver Jermaine Kearse (abdomen) and safety Marcus Maye (foot) are doubtful.
With Martin sidelined, the Jets promoted rookie outside linebacker Frankie Luvu from the practice squad. Quincy Enunwa is likely to move into the starting lineup opposite Robby Anderson. Maye’s potential replacement hadn’t been determined.