Report: Jaguars Re-Sign Veteran RB D'Ernest Johnson

The Jacksonville Jaguars have used the last several days to retain several core depth pieces, and they added another on Tuesday in veteran running back D'Ernest Johnson.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the deal, noting it was a one-year contract. Johnson joined the Jaguars on a one-year deal last offseason.

Free-agent running back D’Ernest Johnson is returning to the Jaguars on a one-year deal, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 12, 2024

The Jaguars have noted they want a bigger role for second-year running back Tank Bigsby in 2024, but Johnson can be insurance as a No. 3 running back and core special teamer.

“D’Ernest Johnson got hurt a little bit in there, and then Tank [Bigsby] was a rookie and learning and coming on. We really like Tank and he’ll have a bigger impact for us this year," Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson told NBC Sport's Matthew Berry this week at the NFL Scouting Combine.

With Bigsby on the sidelines as a rookie, Etienne finished third in the NFL with 325 touches -- 70 more than the year previously. That clearly isn't what the Jaguars want to repeat in 2024, which will mean more touches and play-time for Bigsby.

Johnson started last year as the Jaguars' No. 3 running back after beating out JaMycal Hasty for the role in training camp. He then gradually saw his snaps increase as he became the No. 2 back behind Etienne.

Johnson appeared in all 17 games for the Jaguars last season, recording 41 carries for 108 yards and 10 receptions for 140 yards. Johnson impressed the Jaguars' staff throughout the season, especially on third downs thanks to his blocking and receiving ability.