Patriots’ journeyman RB embracing small role for chance to be part of a winner
FOXBOROUGH — As D'Ernest Johnson got dressed in the corner of the Patriots locker room on Sunday evening, he looked up and smiled, watching two teammates trading playful verbal jabs nearby.
The Patriots had just finished their Week 18 win over the Miami Dolphins , but unlike so many seasons in his past, there was more football ahead . But before it arrived, he was enjoying the present.
Johnson played just 12 snaps against the Dolphins, nine on offense after the game was out of reach and three on special teams.
It was a quiet day in a quiet season for the running back, who'll turn 30 next month. But Johnson, who signed with the Patriots off the Ravens practice squad just before Halloween, isn't complaining. He's had more snaps and a larger role in other years.
He's never been a No. 1 back, but he's been a backup with a larger role on special teams. In 2021, he had three separate games of over 100 all-purpose yards for the Browns.
What Johnson hasn't had is a chance to really experience winning.
In a career that's bounced him from Cleveland to Jacksonville to Arizona, with a stint on the Ravens practice squad, Johnson's teams have gone 45-56. Only one, the 2020 Browns, reached the playoffs. But even that registered differently in the subdued atmosphere of the COVID season.
So Sunday was a new experience. When the Patriots left the field after their 38-10 win, the sold-out Gillette Stadium crowd roared appreciatively. Johnson had never experienced that before and doesn't want it to end.
If that means making his contributions on scout team or in practice away from the spotlight, while featured backs Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson thrive, Johnson is comfortable with that.
"Whatever my role is, that's what I'll do. I'll take advantage of my role. I'm always cheering my boys, Rhamondre and Tre. If they pop a play, I'm the first one on the field, happy for them," he said. "I try to bring leadership and support to the room. I'm excited to be part of this team and contribute in whatever way I can."
The T-shirt and hat Johnson got last weekend for the Patriots' AFC East title marked the first trophy swag he's ever earned. It was the first time as a pro that he'd been a champion of anything.
He didn't take it for granted.
"When I got here, I knew it was great team. Guys pushed each other to get better," he said. "It feels good just to be on a winning team, with a great group of guys. It's a great feeling."
Mike Vrabel has been impressed with his dedication and unselfishness.
"He's done nothing but come in, be a professional, learn and be ready to go," Vrabel said on Christmas Eve. "I know that when his opportunity comes, he'll take advantage of it."
Johnson said he'll be ready if called upon and if not, he's still glad to be part of the Patriots' resurgence.
"No doubt about that. I'm up there in my career," he said. "I'll enjoy the ride, and work hard and enjoy the guys. That's the biggest thing."
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