Ty Johnson is finally hitting the field this Sunday against the Chargers, and man, does this offense need him. James Cook’s workload has been absolutely wild, with 34 carries through just two games this season. That’s a pace for 289 carries in 2026, after he already piled up 309 attempts last regular season and another 39 in the playoffs in 2025. It’s a huge number, and it’s time to lighten that load.
Ty Johnson: The Secret Weapon Josh Allen Knows About
This isn’t some new guy we’re talking about; Johnson has been called the best third-down back in the NFL repeatedly by Josh Allen himself! Yet, despite that high praise, he’s barely been a part of the offense for the past three seasons. Look at 2025: Johnson toted the rock just 50 times across 17 games, which is basically three carries per game. He also caught 24 passes, about 1.4 receptions per contest. Those were his *highest totals* during his entire time with the team. Before this season even started, I was screaming that Johnson should be our clear RB2 over Ray Davis. Why? Because the guy is simply a better overall runner with way more versatility.
Cook’s Touches Are Reaching Dangerous Territory
We’re pushing for a bigger role for Johnson precisely because of what it’ll do for James Cook. Count all his touches, and Cook had 298 in 2024 and a massive 385 last year. Those are some sizable numbers for any back. Now, I get it, Cook is incredibly low mileage for a 28-year-old feature back. He entered the 2026 season with only 948 career carries, including playoffs. For perspective, his brother Dalvin had 1,409 total carries by the end of his Age 28 season. We always hear about that “RB cliff,” and it’s right around 1,500-1,800 rushing attempts. Shouldn’t we be doing everything in our power to prolong the time it takes for Cook to get there? We need him healthy and effective long-term.
It’s Time To Unleash Johnson
Look, sample size matters, but Johnson has averaged an insane 6.8 yards per touch in his time with the team. That’s more than a full yard more than Cook to date! With Johnson presumably fully healthy now, after missing two games to start the 2026 campaign, it’s time to move him into a substantial RB2 role. He should absolutely set career highs in both carries and receptions this season. This isn’t just about giving Cook a breather; it’s about making the entire offense better. Johnson’s skill and versatility, plus that bonkers efficiency, could be exactly what we need. When he finally steps onto that field Sunday against the Chargers, let’s see if he gets the serious usage he deserves and keeps Cook from hitting that cliff too soon. Our season could depend on it!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Buffalo Rumblings.
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