Browns strike in free agency, sign former Rams safety John Johnson

CLEVELAND — Andrew Berry didn’t waste much time Monday after the NFL’s legal tampering period commenced, signing former Rams safety John Johnson to a three-year deal, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

Johnson’s deal is reportedly worth $33.75 million with $24 million guaranteed, NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported.

Johnson's management firm shared the news of the deal on Twitter Monday afternoon.

Johnson, 25, was drafted by the Rams in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Last season, Johnson recorded 105 tackles, 73 of which were solo, eight passes defended, and an interception. He also served as the defensive signal-caller for the Rams last season, which as a unit was ranked No. 1 in the league.

Over his four years in the league, Johnson has recorded 350 total tackles, 32 passes defended, eight interceptions, and a forced fumble.

Johnson will provide a much-needed boost to the Browns secondary. Injuries decimated the Browns' secondary last season and it showed on the field.

With Joe Woods’ desire to “transition into a dime system,” Johnson puts the Browns in a great place to begin that transition, as he joins Ronnie Harrison and Grant Delpit in Cleveland’s safety room. Johnson, a smart and talented safety, will bring leadership to the entire Cleveland defense.

The third-highest graded safety in the entire league last season by Pro Football Focus, Johnson is a massive signing for Berry, who also made big signings on offense in free agency last season.

The Browns will be able to finalize the deal at 4 p.m. Wednesday, which is the official start of NFL Free Agency.

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Camryn Justice is a digital content producer at News 5 Cleveland. Follow her on Twitter @camijustice.