Tight end Juwan Johnson has secured his future with the New Orleans Saints, agreeing to a three-year contract extension. The 28-year-old athlete, who initially joined the Saints as an undrafted rookie free agent wide receiver out of Oregon in 2020, has shown remarkable growth and resilience throughout his career. This new agreement comes after a strong performance in the 2022 season, where he led the team with seven receiving touchdowns.
Johnson's journey with the Saints has been marked by significant milestones and challenges. Originally signed as a wide receiver, he struggled in his rookie year, catching only four passes. However, a pivotal decision by former Saints coach Sean Payton in 2021 saw him transition to the tight end position. This strategic shift proved beneficial for both Johnson and the team, allowing him to leverage his skills more effectively.
The 2022 season was a testament to Johnson's development and hard work. Despite facing a foot issue that required surgery and missing most of the training camp, he returned in time for the start of the season. He played all 17 games, recording a career-high of 50 receptions for 508 yards and three touchdowns. His seven receiving touchdowns were the most by any player on the team that season.
Johnson's performance has been consistently robust over his five-year career with the Saints. He has amassed 146 career receptions for 1,622 yards and 18 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to be a reliable target on the field. His contribution in the 2022 season, where he caught passes primarily from quarterback Andy Dalton, highlighted his importance to the team's offensive strategy.
In addition to his new three-year deal, Johnson had previously signed a two-year extension before the start of the 2023 season. His commitment to the Saints is evident through his dedication and performance on the field, making him a valuable asset to the team.
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