Ranking Tennessee Titans First Round Picks of the 21st Century

2. RB Chris Johnson, 24th Overall in 2008 Draft

Lao Tzu once said that the star that “burns twice as bright, burns half as long,” and this old adage rings true for running back Chris Johnson’s career with the Titans.  Though he lasted only 6 seasons with the Titans, he was widely regarded as one of the most dangerous running backs in the league during that period. Though Johnson was a bit of a surprise pick by the Titans, he immediately had an impact with over 1,000 yards rushing and 9 touchdowns despite sharing carries with LenDale White.

The following year, Johnson produced one of the greatest seasons ever by a running back. He broke Marshall Faulk’s yards from scrimmage record and joined the elite group of 7 running backs to reach 2,000 yards in a single season. For this feat, Johnson earned the moniker CJ2K and the Offensive Player of the Year Award.  Johnson was never able to match his 2009 season, but he was still one of the most productive players in the league over the next couple of seasons and gave the Titans a superstar around which they could create an offense. After CJ2K was released in 2014, the Titans offense lacked an identity for years and appeared lost and rudderless. Chris Johnson gave the Titans offense an identity and playmaking ability for years. For this reason, Johnson should be considered on the greatest 1st rounders of the millennium and history for the Tennessee Titans.