Why the Chargers Haven't Taken a Shot on FA Safety Option John Johnson III

Will LA make a big safety addition these next few weeks?

It's going to be a long couple of weeks without any new Chargers content hitting our timelines but I have a good feeling that LA's front office will be burning the midnight oil as they look to make some final roster decisions before training camp kicks off and we really get ready for the 2023 offseason.

We've already seen the likes of Austin Ekeler work out a deal with the franchise so he could at least suit up in powder blue for one more season despite his contract disagreements with executives over the offseason. The Bolts were also able to spend their cap space very wisely as they welcomed in Eric Kendricks to bolster their defensive line and bring back some key contributors in Donald Parham and Trey Pipkins III.

Goodness, Eric Kendricks. pic.twitter.com/26UDnKXTGJ

— Alec Lewis (@alec_lewis) October 31, 2022

However, the Chargers clearly do need some upgrades and additions at the safety position. Nasir Adderley announced his sudden retirement after being poised to hold down that position after four seasons with the franchise so LA will need to fill his void.

John Johnson III has been someone that the Chargers have been linked to the past couple of months and he is coming off of a 2022 season in which he suited up in 17 games for the Cleveland Browns and recorded over 100 combined tackles for the third time in his career. 

John Johnson III interception pic.twitter.com/FOOeb4P0uT

— Jake Trotter (@Jake_Trotter) July 31, 2021

Other Chargers players were vouching for the team to sign him and he even furthered teased the idea with his own Twitter likes. However, talks never progressed and it may be due to money disagreements.

Johnson had originally signed a three-year deal worth $24 million and he may be looking for a similar one with the Chargers as his production hasn't dropped much over these past couple of seasons. He has shown he's willing to play the waiting game and the Bolts can as well until training camp.

We'll have to see if the talks finally move forward and a decision is finally made!