D’Ernest Johnson

Career StatsC-

Year	Team	GP	Yards	TD	YPC
Career		27	—	—	—
2025		6	—	—	—
2024		10	—	—	—
2023		11

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

This D'Ernest Johnson signing earns an A+ CVI and represents an absolute steal for New England, landing a serviceable starter at rock-bottom pricing. At just $1.0M AAV over four years, the Patriots secured meaningful backfield depth for less than most teams spend on special teamers, creating exceptional value against Johnson's proven NFL production. The 28-year-old brings legitimate starter experience from his Cleveland days, where he stepped up admirably in featured roles, yet he's signing for backup money due to the oversaturated running back market. The contract structure heavily favors New England with minimal guaranteed money and maximum flexibility, essentially giving them a proven commodity on a prove-it deal with multi-year team control. This is exactly the type of shrewd roster building that championship teams execute — identifying undervalued veterans who can contribute immediately while preserving salary cap space for premium positions.

Performance Analysis

D'Ernest Johnson earns a C- for the Patriots at running back, a veteran who has carved out a career as a reliable change-of-pace back. Johnson runs with good vision and patience, waiting for holes to develop before hitting them with authority. His production has been modest but efficient, and he has been a useful complement to the featured backs ahead of him. New England values his professionalism and ability to move the chains on short-yardage situations. Johnson is the quintessential journeyman back — he will not be the star, but he will give you honest work every time he touches the ball.

Fan Sentiment

A routine but telling roster cut signals the Patriots are reshaping their backfield depth chart. Five headlines covered the move, notably linking Johnson to a Super Bowl LX elevation storyline. The key signal is negative: releasing a veteran contributor suggests younger or cheaper options won priority. Fans are nostalgic about Johnson's gritty journey but unsurprised given his minimal role. New England will likely promote a practice squad back or target a free agent to fill rotational depth.