Buffalo Bills’ defense thrives on versatility. Veteran nickel cornerback Taron Johnson embodies it best. He built a quiet reputation as the NFL’s most reliable slot defender. He played hybrid roles in Buffalo’s scheme.
Aaron Rodgers’ recent comments about Taron Johnson now feel strangely timed. Days before the Buffalo Bills cut the veteran defensive back. The four-time MVP called him one of the league’s most underrated stars. Buffalo’s roster move quickly made that praise look off-base.
Aaron Rodgers’ Praise for Taron Johnson Looks Odd After Buffalo Bills Release
NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers
Jan 12, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) throws during the first half of an AFC Wild Card Round game against the Houston Texans at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
The Buffalo Bills released Taron Johnson after eight seasons with the franchise. This is creating a surprising storyline across the NFL. Aaron Rodgers’ words about Taron Johnson surfaced almost immediately after the move. Aaron Rodgers made an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show. The veteran quarterback highlighted the Buffalo defender while discussing the Bills’ defensive structure
“Taron Johnson is one of the best players in the league, and one of the most underrated players in the league. He can play a box linebacker and stop the run, and he can cover guys.”
WOW: Aaron Rodgers called Taron Johnson one of the BEST players in the NFL this week.
“One of the best players in the league, one of the most underrated players. He can play a box LB, stop the run and he can cover guys”
Today, the #Bills released Johnson.pic.twitter.com/Sx4JuXzAlN
— MLFootball (@MLFootball) March 6, 2026
The remark stood out because Rodgers specifically explained how Taron Johnson allowed Buffalo to play nickel defense, almost like a base formation. Few slot corners can function as both coverage specialists and run defenders. Johnson did exactly that during his tenure with the Buffalo Bills.
The defensive back spent his entire playing career with the Buffalo Bills. He entered the league as a fourth-round selection in the 2018 draft. He is also a First-Team All-Pro selection in 2023.The decision to release him likely involved financial considerations. Johnson carried a 2026 cap hit of about $11.4 million. The Bills are adjusting to a defensive system under coordinator Jim Leonhard. That change may have reduced the role of Buffalo’s long-time slot specialist.
Teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers could emerge as logical suitors. The Steelers are exploring help at cornerback. They already have familiarity with Taron Johnson after facing him multiple times. Rodgers might have unintentionally boosted the veteran’s stock with his public praise.
Aaron Rodgers’ words about Taron Johnson didn’t just age strangely. They may have sparked interest around the league. The next chapter could begin quickly for a player widely viewed as one of the NFL’s most underrated defenders.