Which NFL Suitor Needs Andre Johnson the Most?
By Erik Lambert
Nov 10, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson (80) warms up before the game against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Arizona won 27-24. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Four NFL teams are rumored to have interest in trading for veteran receiver Andre Johnson. Which one needs him the most?
New England Patriots
Interest in Johnson should not be a surprise for the New England Patriots. The last time they acquired a disgruntled veteran receiver he put up 23 touchdowns his first year with the team in 2007. More than that though is the fact New England may not have the utmost confidence in their young receiving core, especially given the iffy health of Aaron Dobson, Danny Amendola and Rob Gronkowski. Still, Tom Brady always seems to find a way regardless of who he’s throwing to.
Carolina Panthers
Going 12-4 was a major accomplishment for the Carolina Panthers last season. The key to remember though is that they did it with a passing attack that ranked 29th in the NFL. Despite having a suffocating defense and versatile weapon in Cam Newton at quarterback, it’s going to be very hard for them to make the playoffs consistently without better production through the air. Hopes are high the addition of massive Florida State hero Kelvin Benjamin and veterans Jerricho Cotchery and Jason Avant will be enough. Realistically, they shouldn’t count on it.
Seattle Seahawks
The world champs are always looking for that next big move. Regardless of their Super Bowl title, the Seattle Seahawks know they must continue to seek ways to get better. Pairing Andre Johnson with Percy Harvin would certainly qualify. Head coach Pete Carroll understands at some point the offense will be run through quarterback Russell Wilson, especially given the advancing age of Marshawn Lynch. Johnson gives them an instant replacement for the loss of Golden Tate and would make them overwhelming favorites in the NFC West.
Cleveland Browns
Everything seemed so ready to fall into place for the Cleveland Browns. They pounced on Johnny Manziel in the NFL draft to finally get a big-name signal caller and would soon be ready to pair him with star wide receiver Josh Gordon. Then, before the draft was even over, Gordon was facing the prospect of a year-long suspension for his latest illegal substance violation. Suddenly the Browns offense is in danger of becoming neutered and there is little they can do about it. That is unless they can get a guy like Johnson.