The Cleveland Browns and running back Duke Johnson reportedly have agreed to a contract extension.
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported the three-year deal is worth $15.6 million with a $5 million signing bonus.
The move ensures Johnson, who was set to enter the final year of his rookie contract, won't test free agency next spring.
The Browns selected Johnson in the third round of the 2015 draft (77th overall), and he instantly filled a void in their backfield as a pass-catching specialist. As a rookie, Johnson amassed 61 receptions for 534 yards and two touchdowns while tacking on 379 rushing yards.
The deal includes $7.7 million guaranteed and a $5 million signing bonus.
"I'm excited," Johnson said. "It's fun to see how this team is shaping out and I want to be a part of it. You can see it with the guys they brought in on offense like Tyrod (Taylor) and (Jarvis) Landry plus the guys we already had. I think bringing in coach (Todd) Haley adds another dimension to our offense and it gives coach (Hue) Jackson the chance to be the head coach. (General manager) John Dorsey has been bringing in guys that can play, that can ball, and that gives us a chance. Now it's about going out and doing it now."
Among the league's backs since 2015, Johnson is first with 6.3 yards per touch from scrimmage, 1,741 yards receiving, and 188 catches.
"Duke Johnson is a good football player," Dorsey said. "His hard work and commitment to the Browns organization is appreciated and we are excited to extend his contract and keep him in a Browns uniform for years to come. Duke is an excellent representative our organization. He leads by example and we look forward to him playing an important role with the Cleveland Browns moving forward."
