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Juwan Johnson could be the middle-of-the-field threat the Saints offense needs

Jan 8, 2023; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Saints tight end Juwan Johnson (83) is pumped up by trainer Rob Wenning against the Carolina Panthers during the second half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 8, 2023; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Saints tight end Juwan Johnson (83) is pumped up by trainer Rob Wenning against the Carolina Panthers during the second half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports

Juwan Johnson has the best ability to raise the ceiling of the New Orleans Saints tight end room. Taysom Hill is technically listed as a tight end on the depth chart. As tempting as that would be, it’s a bit disingenuous. Hill is going to move around and line up at too many positions to pigeonhole into a single role.

Johnson is a true tight end who will give Derek Carr and New Orleans a middle of the field threat. Michael Thomas’ departure leaves that section of the field to be prime Juwan Johnson real estate.

This is the second year in a row Johnson is being looked at to step up. It took him too long to hit his stride in 2023, particularly in the middle of the field. He only caught five passes between 10 and 19 yards last season after catching 17 of them at that range in his breakout 2022 campaign. The Saints may look to find another tight end if Johnson doesn’t rebound and put it together soon.

He has the attributes to be an effective threat at tight end. Johnson is a former wide receiver who is good with the ball in his hands. This would be perfect for attacking the gap between the linebackers and safety. He could be the key player for unlocking the middle of the field for New Orleans.

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This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Juwan Johnson could be the middle-of-the-field threat the Saints offense needs