The Buffalo Bills are close to signing veteran safety John Johnson III, a 562-tackle, 15-interception standout, to bolster their defense under coordinator Bobby Babich, sources told ESPN on May 25, 2025. The move aims to address a critical need in the secondary as the team prepares for training camp.
Johnson, a former Los Angeles Rams starter, brings 8 years of NFL experience, having played 105 games with 562 tackles and 15 interceptions. His breakout 2018 season saw the Rams reach Super Bowl LIII, though they lost 13-3 to the Patriots. After stints with the Browns and a return to L.A., Johnson, now 29, is healthy following a 2024 scapula injury and eager to contribute.
“We need a veteran presence to stabilize our secondary,” Babich told ESPN’s Sal Paolantonio. “John’s experience and versatility can help us take the next step.”
The Bills’ safety group has been a concern, lacking depth despite the return of Jordan Poyer on a one-year deal. Current options like Damar Hamlin, Taylor Rapp, Cole Bishop, and Darrick Forrest have shown inconsistency, with Rapp’s reckless play and Bishop’s struggles in deep coverage exposing weaknesses in 2024, when the secondary ranked 24th in coverage.
NFL analyst Moe Moton of Bleacher Report highlighted Johnson’s fit. “Johnson can play both safety spots and slot, offering flexibility,” Moton wrote. “With 15 interceptions and a proven track record, he’s a low-risk, high-reward addition for a team needing secondary help.” His durability—playing all 17 games in 2023—adds reliability.
Johnson’s potential signing aligns with Brandon Beane’s strategy to fortify the defense, which struggled against the Chiefs in the 2024 AFC Championship, allowing 325 yards to Patrick Mahomes. With $28.2 million in cap space after cutting Curtis Samuel, the Bills can afford a veteran minimum deal for Johnson, projected at $1.5 million.
“John brings the leadership we need,” Beane said. “He’s a perfect fit to help us compete in the AFC.” The move could prove pivotal as the Bills, led by Josh Allen’s 4,306-yard MVP season and James Cook’s 1,086-yard rushing, face the Chiefs at home in 2025.
As training camp looms, Johnson’s addition could solidify Babich’s defense, giving Bills Mafia hope for a deeper playoff run. With roster adjustments ongoing, including recent drama around T.J. Sanders and Larry Ogunjobi, the Bills aim for their first Super Bowl title.
