What Josh Johnson Signing Means for Alex Smith, Colin Kaepernick and 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers added quarterback Josh Johnson, formerly of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, by signing him to a two-year deal on Thursday.

This move is definitely more significant than most backup signal-caller acquisitions. 

Why? 

Well, by now you're probably aware that Johnson played under Harbaugh during his days at the University of San Diego, and the two experienced a great deal of success in the Pioneer League of the Football Championship Subdivision during the 2005 and 2006 seasons.

Alex Smith's job isn't in jeopardy after he and Harbaugh created a fine rapport last season. The team went 13-3 and was a field goal away from the Super Bowl with the former No. 1 overall pick running the show.  

Wait, what happens with 2011 second-round pick Colin Kaepernick?

This doesn't bode well for him. Johnson's been relegated to second-string in Tampa and has backed up Josh Freeman since 2009, but he certainly has more playing experience (177 attempts compared to five attempts) and a previous relationship with Harbaugh.

While Harbaugh was clearly in on the selection the multi-dimensional Nevada quarterback, it seems pretty clear that the 49ers head coach was looking for the closest resemblance to Johnson and found Kaepernick in Round 2 last April.   

It's safe to say the 2011 AP NFL Coach of the Year knows Johnson's strengths and will attempt to use him in a variety of sub-packages next season.

The next logical thought stems from the possibility of Smith struggling in 2012.

Who's next in line?

Harbaugh will likely give Kaepernick and Johnson a chance to battle during training camp for the No. 2 spot, but don't be surprised if Kaepernick is No. 3 on the depth chart come September.

When Harbaugh had the opportunity to acquire Johnson from Tampa Bay, he did. If he can craft an offense to accentuate Smith's strengths, you better believe he could do the same with Johnson.   

I doubt he was brought in not to play.

Josh Johnson, an interesting novelty item with loads of upside for Harbaugh to tinker with next season in San Fran. 

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