David Johnson Could Have Even Bigger Numbers in 2017

David Johnson could improve on his incredible statistics from 2016

By any definition, Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson had an amazing 2016 season. He was a legitimate MVP candidate, even if Matt Ryan wound up running away with it. In his second year, he had a breakout season.

Johnson was a workhorse for the Cardinals last season. He carried the ball 293 times and had 80 receptions. His 373 total touches led the NFL. He didn’t just touch the ball a lot, though. The second year player maximized his chances.

Johnson was seventh in the league with 1,239 yards, and did so despite injuries on the offensive line. His 879 receiving yards gave him a league leading total of 2,118 yards. He also led the league in touchdowns, with 20. He was elected to his first Pro Bowl and was a first team All Pro.

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It was a tremendous year, but could he do even more in the 2017 season?

Speaking to SiriusXM Fantasy Sports Radio, Johnson said “I feel like there’s room for me to definitely carry more. I think the biggest thing is me learning and getting better and improving. So I feel like I can definitely get that 30 touches, not all rushing obviously, 30 touches per game.”

Johnson averaged just over 23 touches per game last season, so a jump to 30 isn’t a small one. However, there is evidence Johnson could handle it. At 6’1″ and 224 lbs, his size works in his favor. He’s much less likely to wear down. Also in his favor is the fact that many of those extra carries are likely to come through the air, which winds up being less punishing than rushes.

The Cardinals defense has some major changes, but much of the offense remains the same as last year. The offense is designed to come up with big plays, and that starts with the running game. Johnson’s ability changes the way defenses play.

Johnson burst onto the scene last year, and he has proven he’s one of the league’s best running backs. In 2017, with seven more touches per game, he could be even better. That MVP trophy might be waiting in the wings.