5 sneaky threats Carolina Panthers must take seriously vs. the Browns
By Preston Seyl
Carolina Panthers must restrict John Johnson III
Another threat in a loaded Cleveland Browns secondary is none other than John Johnson III. Coming from the Los Angeles Rams and their No. 1 ranked defense in 2020 under Brandon Staley, the safety has shown to be much more than a scheme product.
Johnson’s built some real momentum of late, playing at a high level under Browns defensive coordinator Joe Woods and firmly establishing himself as a core part of the team’s plans on defense.
The former third-round selection had three interceptions in 2021. This shows he can make a play if given the opportunity and is also a major asset to have in terms of communication across the defense.
He is a high-level IQ football player that has great instincts for the game, all nuances of the modern-day formations, and what to expect. The Carolina Panthers and quarterback Baker Mayfield need to be mindful of this, keeping a close eye on Johnson whenever they are planning to get the football downfield.
Johnson was a crucial part of the 2020 Rams and was utilized to best fit his style of play. He has yet to be that quality of player on the backend for Cleveland due to a change of scheme, but that does not detract from what a high-impact individual this could be if the Panthers take him lightly.