The Tennessee Titans have bolstered their roster by signing former Pittsburgh Steelers pass rusher Kyron Johnson to a futures contract, the team announced on Monday. Johnson, who spent most of the 2024 season on the Titans’ practice squad, is known for his explosiveness and quick burst off the line of scrimmage. However, his smaller stature has been a limiting factor in securing a long-term role on an active NFL roster.
Johnson was initially drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Kansas. A native of Arlington, Texas, he transitioned from an off-ball linebacker to an outside linebacker, where he has shown flashes of potential. His ability to accelerate quickly and disrupt plays makes him a valuable asset in certain defensive packages. Despite these strengths, Johnson’s size has posed challenges, particularly in run defense, which has limited his opportunities to establish himself as a consistent presence in the NFL.
After being released by the Eagles, Johnson joined the Steelers’ practice squad, where he continued to refine his skills. However, during the Steelers’ 2024 training camp, he was unable to secure a spot on the active roster, losing out to Jeremiah Moon for the team’s final edge rusher position. Moon’s physicality and versatility gave him the edge over Johnson, leaving the latter to seek opportunities elsewhere.
The Titans saw potential in Johnson and added him to their practice squad during the season. Now, with the signing of a futures contract, Tennessee is signaling its belief in his ability to contribute moving forward. Futures contracts allow teams to secure players for the upcoming offseason and training camp, often giving developmental players like Johnson a chance to compete for a roster spot.
While Johnson’s size may still be a hurdle, his quickness and special teams capabilities could make him a valuable depth piece for the Titans. Tennessee is likely to utilize him in sub-packages, where his pass-rushing skills can be maximized, and on special teams, where his speed and agility can be effective. His trajectory mirrors that of other situational players, such as the Steelers’ Nick Herbig, who has carved out a role in a similar capacity.
Johnson’s journey from a college standout at Kansas to bouncing between NFL practice squads illustrates the challenges faced by undersized players in the league. However, with determination and the right fit, he has the opportunity to make an impact in Tennessee as he continues to develop his game.