The restricted free-agent market was dormant until Tuesday, but suddenly we have a flurry of activity.
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports that Lions defensive end George Johnson signed a three-year offer sheet with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, according to a source involved in the deal. The team's website first reported the news. Johnson was the second RFA to sign on Tuesday, following Packers safety Sean Richardson's one-year deal with Oakland.
We've been waiting for a team to show interest in Johnson. He recorded the first six sacks of his career in Detroit last season, showing flashes of speed and pass rush ability on the outside. It never hurts to play next to Ndamukong Suh, but Johnson made some impressive one-on-one plays.
Johnson, 27, spent his first three seasons in Tampa. If the Lions choose not to match Tampa's offer, they will receive nothing in return for him. The Bucs are desperate for some pass rush help on the outside, while the Lions have to be concerned about a defensive line that has lost Suh and Nick Fairley.
The latest Around The NFL Podcast welcomes back Colleen Wolfe to the show and breaks down team needs heading into the draft. Find more Around The NFL content on NFL NOW.
