The Cincinnati Bengals have lost Michael Johnson to a back injury.
During the team’s Week 8 matchup with the Indianapolis Colts, Johnson was forced from the game with a back injury. The team later ruled Johnson out after the halftime break.
Johnson has enjoyed a resurgent season in Cincinnati after it appeared father time had finally caught up with the 30-year-old defender. After spending most of his pro career at defensive end, Johnson has began playing more defensive tackle this season, a role he’s done very well in.
He still has the strength and power to win one-on-one battles, but his speed and explosion have dropped off considerably, making him ineffective as a pass rusher off the edge where those traits are more crucial.