BEREA — The Browns added a pair of high-quality running backs during the offseason — Carlos Hyde in free agency and Georgia’s Nick Chubb with the No. 35 pick in the draft.
Yet Duke Johnson feels secure in his future with the team despite entering the last season of his rookie contract.
“Yeah, I’m very optimistic,” Johnson said Wednesday during organized team activities. “I believe that not only the staff, but the front office wants me here. It’s just about both sides coming to an agreement.”
At the end of the winless 2017 season, Johnson reiterated his desire to stay with the Browns. He didn’t change his mind over the offseason and is encouraged by the ongoing, if dragging, discussions about a new deal.
“We’re still in contract talks. Taking it day by day,” he said. “It’s going well. It’s not going bad. This is kind of my first contract negotiation. Rookie deal is set, so this is kind of my first time, so I’m not sure the timetable of when it’s supposed to be done, when it should be done, so we’re taking it one day at a time.”
Johnson was a third-round pick out of Miami in 2015 and signed a four-year deal worth $3.1 million. His next deal will likely average more than that per season.
Johnson had his best season in 2017 with 1,041 yards from scrimmage — 693 receiving and 348 rushing — and seven touchdowns. He was voted the team’s player of the year by local beat writers.
His role under new coordinator Todd Haley hasn’t been defined yet, but he should continue to serve as a third-down back, receiving option and change-of-pace rusher.
Johnson said his first contract negotiation taught him something.
“I did learn it takes forever,” he said.
