Titans running back Chris Johnson is known in some circles as CJ2K, given that he once rushed for more than 2,000 yards in a season -- and given that it’s pretty much his goal every year.
Through five games of the 2011 season, Johnson is CJ1/4K. He has 250 yards rushing, which works out to an average of 50 yards per game, and 3.0 yards per carry.
So what’s going on? Has Johnson simply lost his fire now that he has fattened his wallet?
It’s far more complicated than that, especially since Johnson’s intense pride and competitiveness will push him to play hard regardless of his financial situation. That said, his long holdout hasn’t helped matters.
The Titans have a new offensive coordinator, a new system, and a new quarterback. Coupled with the fact that Johnson didn’t show up until days before the start of the regular season, Johnson has struggled to catch up.
Throw in the fact that Chris Palmer uses the fullback less extensively and the absence of fullback Ahmard Hall for the first four games of the season due to a suspension, and Johnson’s struggles make even more sense.
The bye week gives Johnson a chance to catch up. It’s believed that he’ll get it together next Sunday against the Texans.
Then again, it’s been believed pretty much every week that he’ll get it together. It hasn’t happened yet.
