Let’s get to know the new Giant linebacker
The New York Giants claimed linebacker Patrick Johnson off waivers from the Philadelphia Eagles this week. A 2021 seventh-round pick by the Eagles, this was Johnson’s fourth season in Philly. So, to learn a bit more about him, we reached out to SB Nation’s Bleeding Green Nation for some info.
Brandon Lee Gowton answered three quick questions about the now former Eagle.
Why did the Eagles waive him?
Brandon: The Eagles wanted to open a roster spot to sign (former Giant!) Nick Gates from their practice squad to the active roster so that they could also still have two temporary practice squad elevations for Week 2. Johnson was waived to open that spot. Johnson was active for the Eagles’ Week 1 game as a fifth edge rusher but only played on special teams, not defense. The Eagles were comfortable with parting with Johnson in part because they also seemingly wanted to get rookie third-round pick Jalyx Hunt on the active game day roster. TL;DR – Johnson got waived because of a numbers crunch, not anything he did wrong.
He has barely played on defense the past two seasons. Can he be more than a special teamer?
Brandon: I believe so. Johnson’s flashed some pass rushing juice. He had a strip-sack that allowed the Eagles to win their first preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens this summer. He also had some good moments in training camp. I could see him contributing as a rotational edge rusher.
Are there any memorable highlights from his time with the Eagles?
Brandon: Other than that strip-sack I mentioned, not really. I know it was a preseason game but it did stand out because Jake Elliott missed a game-winning kick, the Ravens offense took over, and Johnson immediately forced a turnover to give Elliott a chance at redemption.I think Johnson is a nice get for the Giants. Even if he only plays on special teams, he ranked third on the team in ST tackles last on an ST unit that ranked No. 1 by DVOA.
