Michael Johnson Will Return To The Bengals In 2015

Nov 17, 2013; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Michael Johnson (93) reacts during the game against the Cleveland Browns at Paul Brown Stadium. Cincinnati won 41-20. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

Michael Johnson was cut by Tampa Bay this week and it took only minutes for the speculation of a return to Cincinnati to begin. In the end, he had a choice to make; he could return to Cincinnati, an organization who helped start his career, or he could go to the Minnesota Vikings and join his former defensive coordinator. His decision was made late on Sunday morning and according to Adam Schefter of ESPN:

Former Bengals DE Michael Johnson is returning to Cincinnati, having reached agreement with team, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 15, 2015

The Bengals reunite with their third round draft pick from 2009 and 2012 sack leader. Last season was a down year for Johnson in Tampa. He played in 14 of their 16 games and totaled 27 total tackles, four sacks, two forced fumbles, and four tackles for loss. He only missed one game with the Bengals in his five seasons going for 26.5 sacks, three forced fumbles and fumble recoveries, two interceptions, and eight tackles for loss.

The Bengals missed his production in 2014. They fell from being a top five NFL defense to the 20th ranked in both the run and pass. Johnson made teammates like Geno Atkins and Vontaze Burfict better and they made him better; it was the epitome of a symbiotic relationship.

If Johnson can get back to his Cincinnati form, this team could get back to being one of the most dominate defenses in the league. He will replace Robert Geathers, who was released by the Bengals after the season, which was a much needed move after his under performance last season.

Welcome back Michael Johnson. It is good to have you back in stripes.

Next: Michael Johnson's Big Decision

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