New Las Vegas Raiders cornerback Taron Johnson reportedly is staying away from the voluntary offseason workout program because he wants a contract adjustment.
Here’s what to know about the situation:
It’s fairly minor for now:
These things happen all the time around the league. That’s way this portion
of the year is coined ”voluntary.” Yes, the Raiders’ brass is likely a little annoyed, but it’s all part of the business and it’s simply a process that happens this time of year.
They can solve it:
This shouldn’t be too complicated to fix if the Raiders want. They have the salary-cap space to bump him up if they want. So, it’s not like a solution is miles away from happening.
Rookie factor:
The Raiders traded for Johnson from the Buffalo Bills (who were going to release him if they didn’t make the sixth/seventh round trade swap) in March. Then, in April, they drafted Treydan Stukes and Jermod McCoy. Stukes can play nickel cornerback like Johnson. So, the Raiders are much more stout at the position than they were. So, they may not feel inclined to invest more in Johnson than they already have, especially since he likely won’t be a Raider for the long term.
Not an ideal start to relationship:
Johnson was on his way to free agency when the Raiders stepped in and made the trade. So, he probably feels like he needs a bump. The Raiders probably didn’t have that in mind when they made the deal. So, it’s not a great start to the relationship. But, again, it’s minor for now and solvable and all can easily be forgotten with an agreement.
Minicamp looms large:
It will no longer be a minor deal if Johnson misses the June 9-11 mandatory minicamp. Then, it will take this to the next level and make it a question whether Johnson would miss training camp. So, the next few weeks are critical in this situation.
