CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Charles Johnson arrived at training camp in late July with a nickname befitting his new enormous contract.
The talented defensive end whom teammates promptly dubbed “Big Money” after inking a $76.5 million contract is paying huge dividends this season for the Carolina Panthers.
Johnson, in his fifth season, is tied for sixth in the league with seven sacks, which gives him 15 over his last 15 games. Although the Panthers are just 2-6, Johnson has been a steadying presence on an otherwise injury-depleted defense.
Coach Ron Rivera says Johnson has “played extremely well and we’re getting our money’s worth.”
Johnson looks to continue his torrid play Sunday against the Tennessee Titans. But it won’t be easy as the Titans have allowed only 12 sacks this year, fourth-fewest in the NFL.
