Brandon

Johnson

Other than Karlos Dansby, Arizona’s current front office has enjoyed little immediate success with rookie linebackers. Johnson is highly athletic, but struggles to take on blockers and would probably fit best as a nickel rusher in time. He’ll try to make the club on special teams.

The Pittsburgh-Cincinnati pipeline has traditionally run the opposite direction -- downstream. A top reserve the past few seasons, Johnson would provide insurance inside for the Steelers after cutting ties with James Farrior.

Johnson spent the past four seasons with the Bengals as one of the league’s top reserve linebackers and special teamers. He’ll play the same role in Pittsburgh, adding depth inside following James Farrior’s exit. TE Wes Lyons and WR Connor Dixon were waived to create roster space.

Johnson, 30, appeared in 14 games for the Steelers in 2012, making ten tackles as a pure special teams player. He does have 16 career starts under his belt from his time with the Bengals. Johnson would provide veteran depth.

Johnson was released by the Cardinals last week after being declared inactive Week 1.

Johnson, a fifth-round pick in 2006, didn’t fit new coach Ken Whisenhunt’s 3-4 defensive scheme. Badger will provide depth at both guard and tackle.

Johnson was Cincinnati’s most productive linebacker down the stretch last year, amassing 83 tackles and two interceptions on the weak side after Keith Rivers’ injury. Johnson will be the Bengals’ utility linebacker this year.

Johnson is Keith Rivers’ top backup on the weak side. The Bengals are now down a couple of key reserves, having already lost nickel back David Jones to a potentially serious foot injury. Johnson appears to be week to week.

He stuffed Dan Coats on second down and sniffed out an Andre Caldwell reverse to force a punt in the practice game. Keith Rivers is Cincy’s WILL ‘backer of the future, but he’ll have ground to make up when his holdout ends.

Maybe he doesn’t need practice. Brandon Johnson started, but that probably won’t last. Rivers still appears slated to get the nod on opening day.