Browns activate Johnson

Browns S John Johnson III came off the COVID list Monday morning, clearing him to play against the Raiders. That’s a key return for the Cleveland defense but not a big factor for IDP lineups

Browns S John Johnson III left in the 1st half of Sunday's loss to the Steelers with a neck injury. S Grant Delpit filled in the rest of the way and should start if Johnson misses further time. Johnson has been a disappointment on the fantasy-scoring front in his 1st Cleveland season, spending far less time "in the box."

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports that the Browns will be signing S John Johnson. The former Ram finished 3 of the past 4 years among the top 11 safeties in Pro Football Focus grading. His signing likely means Cleveland doesn't view Ronnie Harrison as starter material for 2021. We'd bet they hope 2020 second-round pick Grant Delpit is ready to start next to Johnson. Delpit missed all of his rookie season with a torn Achilles' tendon, so we'll have to see about his readiness this summer. He and Johnson would make for a nice pair at the position, each with versatility to play multiple roles in the formation.

The Rams on Wednesday placed S John Johnson on IR with a left shoulder injury he suffered in the Week 6 loss to the 49ers. HC Sean McVay said earlier this week that Marqui Christian would start in Johnson's place if the injury cost him games. We might also see more playing time for rookie Taylor Rapp, who has been working in a hybrid safety-LB role. Johnson technically has time to make it back for the end of the regular season if he's designated to return, but you should go ahead and drop him from IDP redraft rosters -- unless there's a free IR slot.

Rams S John Johnson hurt his right shoulder in Sunday's loss to the 49ers. He returned to the game but later left again and was ruled out. We'll see about Johnson's status heading into the Week 7 meeting with Atlanta.