The Tennessee Titans are attempting to "sweeten" Chris Johnson's deal in an attempt to get him on the field in time for training camp. Johnson has said for months that he would sit out the 2010 season before he played under his current deal, which has him slated to earn $550,000. While I normally disagree with players sitting out over deals, Chris Johnson is much more valuable to the Titans than what he's being paid.
The Titans have talked about adding around $1 million to Johnson's deal this season, and extending him two seasons with 25% increases over the final two years. While this deal still doesn't fit his production in my opinion, it is a good offer considering he's only played at a high level for two seasons. Until he has been in the league a few seasons playing at the same pace, he probably won't make the money he deserves.
Johnson has definitely been productive for the Titans in his two seasons in the league. He has been selected to two Pro Bowls and started on both occasions. This past season, Johnson became just the sixth back in NFL history to rush for over 2,000 yards in a single season. He also broke Marshall Faulk's record for total yards in a season, racking up an astonishing 2,509 yards. Johnson is also one of the fastest players in the league once he hits the open field, as last season saw Johnson rush for three touchdowns of 85+ yards, more than any other player in NFL history has for their career.
Without Johnson, the Titans would probably be a 4-12 team this season, and getting him back on the field has to be the team's number one priority at this point. With quarterback Vince Young occasionally struggling on the field, Johnson provides the team with a home run threat every time he touches the ball. He also opens up the field a lot more, which in turn helps Young find open receivers much easier. If the Titans can't figure out a solution and get Johnson on the field, expect a very disappointing campaign for Tennessee.
