The Bucs announced Thursday that undrafted rookie wide receiver Cameron Johnson will be out of practice for 21 days. This means Johnson will have up to three weeks to practice and could be placed on the 53-man roster at any time.
Johnson was placed on injured reserve with an ankle injury on Oct. 20, the day before the Bucks’ Monday night game against the Ravens. He was technically eligible to return after the bye week against the Giants, but needed more time to heal.
What role could Johnson play for the Bucks?
Bucks WR Kameron Johnson – Photo by Jeffrey Jones/PR
During training camp, Johnson was one of the most exciting players throughout the summer and fall. He has exceptional quickness and footwork and finds ways to get open and win matchups. And the fact that he was an undrafted free agent from a school you’ve never heard of, Barton University, only added to the conversation.
The only problem was that the diminutive Johnson suffered frequent injuries that caused him to miss several days of practice and two preseason games. Nevertheless, Johnson’s skill set impressed Tampa Bay enough that he still remained on the roster after being cut for the regular season following the final preseason game.
Johnson played little during the regular season until his ankle injury recurred. He played a total of 40 offensive snaps in four games, including one rushing attempt for no gain and one reception on just one target. Johnson also played 20 snaps on special teams and had one punt return for 11 yards in the season opener against the Commanders.
Bucks WR Kameron Johnson – Photo courtesy of USA Today
Particularly where Johnson could find a role in returning punts and kicks. Sean Tucker and Rakim Jarrett have handled kick return duties recently, but Bucky Irving’s status is in question and Tucker may be asked to play more of a role at running back. So it wouldn’t be a bad idea to use the speedy Johnson there to lure a big player. play.
Punt return may be his best spot. The role is currently held by Trey Palmer, but there has been very little work from that role. He returned nine punts for 94 yards, averaging 10.4 yards per return and 17 yards per return. Palmer wasn’t able to flip field position the way Tampa Bay wanted. Putting Johnson in to punt could at least provide a spark in an area of special teams that has room for improvement.
It will be interesting to see if Johnson will be used more offensively after his return. He has top-level speed, and given the Bucs’ preference for screens and swing passes, this could be an aspect he excels in if done correctly. with the bucks Average of about 28 points per game, Adding additional pieces essentially gives a bonus to the group.
