Why the Atlanta Falcons Are the Ideal Landing Spot for Chris Johnson

All-Pro running back Chris Johnson has built a reputation as a speedy, impact running back throughout his six years in the NFL, but his last few seasons with the Tennessee Titans have raised some questions about his ability. Despite this decline in production, he can definitely still be a contributing piece to an NFL team.

Johnson may not be the ideal every-down back, but putting him in a minimized role would allow him to do the things he's best at more effectively. In looking at which teams Johnson would fit best with, the Atlanta Falcons should be at the top of everyone's list.

Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean also put in his vote, and he believes Johnson will end up a Falcon: 

Not only would it be a favorable situation for CJ2K, as he would join a much more talented offense, but Atlanta could surely benefit from having a home run-hitting runner in their backfield.

They tried to add some veteran talent last year with Stephen Jackson and failed miserably (his injuries were the main issue), but adding a back like Johnson would add explosion to an otherwise bland rushing attack (ranked 32nd in the NFL last season). 

Atlanta already has a solid passing attack set up with Matt Ryan, Roddy White and Julio Jones, making the potential addition of Johnson a scary one. Aside from being a talented runner, he's a threat out of the backfield as a receiver, adding another wrinkle to their playbook and giving Ryan a shiny new toy to throw to. 

Year	Receptions	Yards	TDs
2008	43	260	1
2009	50	503	2
2010	44	245	1
2011	57	418	0
2012	36	232	0
2013	42	345	4

Even though he hasn't been as effective since his 2,000-yard season and the new contract that came with it, Johnson has still managed to post 1,000 yards or more in each season since hitting that mark. 

Given how cold Johnson's market has been thus far, he would likely be able to be brought in on a cheaper, one-year contract in order to reassert himself as an elite runner in the league. It would give him a chance to earn his money and would also be a safe bet for the Falcons, who would undoubtedly reward Johnson's production if he succeeds.

The Falcons have already expressed their interest in trading for Johnson before, per ESPN's Adam Schefter, so they likely still have their eyes on him. If they can bring C.J. in on the right deal, then they absolutely must sign him. At that point, the benefits largely outweigh the risks and the team gets that much better.