B. Johnson to battle for Pats roster spot

Prophet · 05-22-2006, 08:29 PM

KFFL
Patriots | B. Johnson to battle for roster spot
Mon, 22 May 2006 05:56:14 -0700

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports New England Patriots WR Bethel Johnson will find himself in a battle for a roster spot in training camp. The Patriots are seeking a No. 2 receiver following the free agent departure of WR David Givens, and the speedy Johnson would like to be considered for the role. But with just 34 catches (including playoffs) over the last three years, he hasn't emerged as he'd hoped. He was inactive for both of the Patriots' playoff games last season. Johnson said an injury suffered early last season also stopped him from having 'a chance to get going, to get off the ground like I wanted to. All I can do is pray it doesn't happen again. Injuries can set you back big." Johnson has been participating in the Patriots' offseason program and feels healthy. He also doesn't feel forgotten by the team. If Johnson is to reverse his career course, it would be perfect timing for the Patriots. The team has WR Deion Branch atop the depth chart, with WR Reche Caldwell (fifth year), rookie WR Chad Jackson, and veteran WR Troy Brown among those fighting for playing time.

**V-Unit** · 05-22-2006, 08:43 PM

There is no way he doesn't make the team, as he is a contributor on special teams as well. He might not see much playing time, but I don't see how the Pats would cut him. Branch, Jackson, and Brown give the Pats a solid 3, while Johnson and Caldwell will back them up.

**MaddenVodkaAddict** · 05-22-2006, 08:43 PM

I appreciate any intentions you had to fool me, Prophet. However, as a dedicated Bethel Johnson fan, I had no trouble in detecting your clever thread topic.