Browns Rumors: Duke Johnson Jr. Leaves Agent Amid Trade Request

Cleveland Browns running back Duke Johnson Jr. has parted ways with agent Kristin Campbell and is without representation amid a trade request, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com reported in April that Johnson's representative requested a trade following the team's signing of former Kansas City Chiefs running back Kareem Hunt. Johnson made it clear during last month's mandatory minicamp that he was still looking to be moved.

Although he was unhappy with his situation, the 25-year-old said he would remain a professional.

"I won't be a disgruntled employee," Johnson said June 4 while acknowledging he only reported to camp because it was mandatory, per ESPN's Jake Trotter. "I won't be causing scenes or losing focus on what's important."

It's not known if a change in representation will affect his stance.

Johnson's versatility allowed him to pile up 300-plus rushing yards and 500-plus receiving yards in three of his four seasons in the league. 

He has averaged 58.8 catches per year, and according to Pro Football Focus, he had a drop rate of just 6 percent to go with 47 receptions in 2018. He has accumulated the third-most catches of any running back over the last three seasons, per PFF.

Johnson is coming off a year in which he accumulated 201 rushing yards, 429 receiving yards and three touchdowns through the air. Meanwhile, 2018 second-round pick Nick Chubb established himself as the No. 1 back, running for 996 yards and finding the end zone 10 total times as a rookie.

Chubb's ability to be a workhorse on the ground and Johnson's ability to make an impact in the passing attack provided the Browns with a solid one-two backfield combo. And while the addition of Hunt—who is suspended for the first eight games for violating the NFL's personal-conduct policy—gives Cleveland another dynamic playmaker, it also has the potential to bump Johnson down the depth chart and limit his touches.

Johnson may want out, but the Browns have shown little interest in fulfilling his wishes. Head coach Freddie Kitchens said last month that he expects Johnson to be a part of the team next season. Between Hunt's suspension and the potential for unexpected injuries, Johnson remains a valuable member of the offense.

The 2019 season marks the first year of the three-year, $15.6 million extension he signed in June 2018.