Player insights

Johnson functions as classic veteran insurance for the Cowboys; he could get more consideration at final cuts if there is greater need for experienced receivers, but likely loses out to younger prospects if the top receivers are all healthy.

A lack of proven special teams value could hurt Johnson's chances of making the roster as a backup receiver.

Johnson's reliable hands and on-field toughness could help him compete for a roster spot if he takes to the Cowboys' offense quickly.

Johnson is positioned as a 'middle' candidate in the receiver competition—older than young prospects like Anthony Smith and Traeshon Holden but younger and less experienced than Marquez Valdes-Scantling.

Johnson is projected as a backup WR with only a 15% roster chance for the Cowboys in 2026, competing for one of two remaining spots after the top three receivers and KaVontae Turpin are locked in.