NFL Trade Speculation: Most Likely Destinations for Chris Johnson in 2012

Since coming into the league in 2008, Chris Johnson has amassed over 4,500 yards in just three seasons, including being the sixth back in league history to reach 2000 yards in a season.

He's become a workhorse back, but explosive, with his record-breaking speed. Because of his exceptional talent, he's constantly been one of the top 5 backs in the league, and likely will be for another 3-5 years.

While the NFL is increasingly becoming a quarterback's league, a commodity like Johnson is still coveted by most of the league's franchises. As Johnson's contract ends after the 2012 season, the Titans may try to get something in return for him, trading him to an eager team needing a running back.

Which teams will be looking for a new, explosive running back in 2012?

Atlanta Falcons

The Falcons already have a stud back in Michael Turner, but by the time 2012 rolls around, they will likely be looking for a younger, more explosive back to replace him.

Turner has been worked (when healthy), and looks like he may be losing a step. His 4.1 YPA was the lowest of his career, and the last few games of the 2010 season looked especially bad.

In my opinion, Turner still has another decent season left in him, but will likely be about done in 2012, when he turns 30.

As Turner declines, the Falcons will be looking for a replacement back to join the young group of Matt Ryan, Julio Jones, and Roddy White. Johnson would be an electrifying prospect, giving the Falcon's a "Greatest Show of Turf" of their own.

Dumping Turner's monster contract will give them room to sign Johnson, although the Falcons would need to think about resigning White and Ryan by that point as well.

St. Louis Rams

The Rams met Chris Johnson in Week 14 during the 2009 season. The Rams were having a particularly bad day, and Johnson made them pay, gaining 117 yards rushing, 69 receiving, and a total of three touchdowns.

As Steven Jackson wears down, the Rams will be looking for a replacement. St. Louis has always enjoyed having stud backs on the roster, from Eric Dickerson, to Marshall Faulk, to Steven Jackson. Many experts thought they'd look for help for Jackson this offseason, but they didn't during the draft, and the lockout has stopped any free agent searches.

Similar to Turner, I believe Jackson has another season or two left, but Johnson should definitely be on the radar for the Rams. Sam Bradford would excel with a weapon like Johnson at his side for another 5 years.

San Francisco 49ers

Like Jackson or Turner, Frank Gore is slowing down. His 2010 season was his worst since his rookie year (although he only played 11 games due to injury), as he gained under 1,000 yards for the first time since getting the starting job.

This season is the last year on his current contract and Gore likely won't be resigned by San Francisco.

Jim Harbaugh and newly drafted quarterback Colin Kaepernick will be looking for a weapon to boost the offense and Johnson would be just the weapon they need.

If the 49ers dump Alex Smith's costly rookie contract, they should have the space to sign a player of Johnson's caliber in 2012.