Gartrell

Johnson

The Bolts believe LaDainian Tomlinson is nearing the end of the line and were in the market for backs, but drafted a similar player to Johnson in the fifth round last year (Marcus B. Thomas) and he didn’t even make the team. Johnson, at 5'10/219, runs a 4.71 forty. He’s not exactly a great long-term bet.

A downhill runner, Johnson impressed coaches with his power this offseason. He’ll compete with Michael Bennett for third on the depth chart this year, but there is opportunity for a big role eventually. LaDainian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles are essentially year-to-year in San Diego, so Johnson is someone to monitor in dynasty leagues.

This puts Michael Bennett’s roster spot in jeopardy. Johnson is averaging just 3.5 yards per preseason carry, but the Bolts “like his potential” and he’s a potential power complement to Darren Sproles if LaDainian Tomlinson goes down. Jacob Hester will not be carrying the football this season.

The Chargers will have to make a decision between Bennett and rookie Gartrell Johnson, who they would like to sneak through waivers to the practice squad, which is very unlikely. They could also cut FB Mike Tolbert, but he is a solid special teams player.

Johnson turned in an unimpressive forty time at the combine, but he makes up for it with an explosive initial burst. Also a solid blocker and receiver, Johnson holds the NCAA record for most yards from scrimmage in a bowl game with 375 against Fresno State. He’s battling Michael Bennett for the No. 3 job.

It’s not a good sign for Johnson that he got the boot over undrafted rookie S C.J. Spillman. The Bolts will hope to re-sign him to the practice squad. Johnson, the team’s fourth-round pick in April, got a $400K signing bonus.

The Chargers may be regretting the decision to part with Johnson now that LaDainian Tomlinson is “limping badly.” Johnson, a fourth-round pick in April, has nice power as well as receiving skills. He’ll provide depth with Danny Ware out for at least two weeks.

San Diego never should’ve let this guy get away. “Gartrell was pretty good,” Coughlin said. “For a young kid coming in hardly knowing the offense...that was pretty good.” Johnson showed his trademark power on six carries, picking up 23 yards. He’s someone to keep in mind in deep dynasty leagues.

The Giants are holding out hope that he’ll be cleared by Sunday, but it’s looking like a long shot with both lower legs banged up. D.J. Ware is still recovering from a concussion sustained last Thursday, so Gartrell Johnson could end up as the No. 2 back against the Cowboys.

Ware doesn’t sound like he’s going to play against the Cowboys this week. With Ahmad Bradshaw also out, Gartrell Johnson will likely be the backup running back. Also look for the Giants to add a free agent back this week.