Derrick Johnson signs with Oakland Raiders after years of rivalry
By Matt Conner
For the second consecutive offseason, one of the most cherished players for the Kansas City Chiefs has signed with a division rival.
Earlier this week, Derrick Johnson had his first known free agent visit ever since getting his release from the Kansas City Chiefs. The visit to the Oakland Raiders generated significant buzz, given they ar the Chiefs division rivals in the AFC West. Now, however, the conversation should become even more interesting since Johnson has been officially signed by the silver and black.
Johnson was allowed to leave this offseason for the first time since being drafted by the Chiefs back in the 2005 NFL Draft, when the Chiefs selected him at No. 15 overall in the first round. However, new general manager Brett Veach made it clear that he wanted to get younger at the position. He’d already traded for Reggie Ragland in a preseason deal with the Buffalo Bills last summer, and a high-profile signing of inside linebacker Anthony Hitchens in free agency only cemented the end of Johnson’s legendary tenure with the team.
Johnson is the Chiefs all-time leading tackler, but the team made it clear it was time for him to move on. Andy Reid has already said that he hopes Johnson one day comes back to coach for him and the team, but Johnson issued a statement after leaving the team saying he believes he can play “several more seasons” in the NFL first.
The Raiders signed a veteran linebacker last year in NaVorro Bowman, but despite rumors of interest, they have yet to sign him. Perhaps Johnson will take his place as the experienced veteran in the middle.
Next: DJ's signing doesn't "betray" anyone
It’s uncertain what Johnson has left in the tank given very few linebackers are still starting many games heading at the age of 36, which DJ will turn in November. However, Johnson’s intelligence and instincts are second-to-none and even his declining athleticism has remained solid over the last few years—earning Pro Bowl nods even later in his career.
Johnson had 71 tackles for the Chiefs last season.