Washington Commanders Sign Veteran QB Josh Johnson to One-Year Contract
The Washington Commanders have added a familiar face to their quarterback room, signing veteran Josh Johnson to a one-year contract. The move brings a wealth of experience to the team’s roster as offseason programs get underway and training camp looms on the horizon.
Johnson, 38, is one of the most well-traveled quarterbacks in NFL history. With this latest signing, the Commanders will be his 14th NFL team, not including stints in other leagues such as the United Football League (UFL), Alliance of American Football (AAF), and XFL. His career, marked by perseverance and adaptability, has earned him a reputation as a reliable backup and locker room presence.
Originally a fifth-round draft pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2008 out of the University of San Diego, Johnson has seen action in 39 NFL games, making nine starts. He has thrown for over 2,280 yards with 13 touchdowns and 16 interceptions in his career. Despite limited playing time, he has maintained a strong professional presence and has often been called upon in emergency situations due to injuries on other teams.
This will not be Johnson’s first stint in Washington. He previously played for the team during the 2018 season, appearing in four games and starting three of them. During that stretch, he showcased his dual-threat ability, throwing for 590 yards and three touchdowns while adding 120 rushing yards and a score on the ground.
The Commanders’ decision to bring Johnson back likely stems from a desire to have a seasoned backup who is familiar with the NFL’s fast pace and has the leadership traits to mentor younger quarterbacks. With new head coach Dan Quinn and offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury implementing a new system, having a veteran like Johnson can be invaluable during the transition process.
The current quarterback depth chart for Washington includes young talent like Sam Howell and newly acquired Marcus Mariota. Johnson’s addition gives the Commanders flexibility and depth, as well as an insurance policy should injuries arise or competition heat up during camp.
While Johnson may not be expected to start, his experience, adaptability, and football IQ could prove essential, especially in a quarterback room that is evolving. The Commanders are hoping that his leadership and understanding of the game can help shape a competitive and cohesive quarterback unit heading into the 2025 season.
As Washington prepares for a new era under fresh leadership, the addition of Josh Johnson is a reminder that experience matters—especially at the quarterback position.
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