Arizona Cardinals' running back David Johnson may have missed the final 15 games of last season, but he did enough in training camp and preseason to warrant the 3-year extension he coveted. His new contract calls for $30 million guaranteed money, for a total of $39 million over three seasons, starting next year. The contract can balloon up to $45 million over three seasons if Johnson meets all his performance bonuses. The $30 million in guaranteed money is the 3rd highest among current tailbacks, and will become a bartering point for Pittsburgh Steeler Le'Veon Bell if and when he escapes the shackles of his franchise tag situation.
Of course the multiyear deal is without risk, for Johnson was rehabbing a sprained MCL since he last suited up. In 2016, David Johnson posted career numbers without any possible hindrances. That year he played in the Pro Bowl and was named a First Team All Pro after posting 2118 total yards on 376 touches. 32 touchdowns from scrimmage are the third most after Todd Gurley and Devonta Freeman, since he entered the league. And don't forget, Johnson would likely be leading that list had he not been injured.
The Arizona Cardinals meets the Washington Redskins in their respective season openers later this afternoon.