Big news for the New Orleans Saints that many have been waiting for, tight end Juwan Johnson has been activated off of the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list.
The tight end is expected to speak with members of the media following this evening’s practice at Tulane’s Yulman Stadium.
Johnson was placed on the PUP list after undergoing surgery on an injured foot earlier this offseason. Sources estimated a 6-8 week recovery time following the procedure, however the Saints may have slow-played things in his recovery process a bit to be safe.
Johnson spent much of the team’s practices in Irvine, Calif. working before and after practices as well as off to the side during. He continued to progress as expected through his rehab and is set to make his return to the practice field. Upon his return, it will be the first time he has practiced since OTAs on May 27.
The Saints will be happy to welcome Johnson back to their tight end room which is in need of a top-flight receiving threat. Not only does Johnson give them that option, but the 6-foot-4 converted wide receiver has also been one of their most effective yards after catch threats.
Johnson had 37 receptions for 368 receiving yards and four touchdown catches last year. Much of his production came at the end of the season after battling injuries early on. The hope now is that he will be able to return to the field while carrying over the momentum he began to build in the last handful of games in 2023.
New offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak comes from a San Francisco 49ers system that has heavily relied on tight ends for pass-game production. Johnson should be able to fit in quite well. Even going back to 2021, the value of a tight end in Kubiak’s system can be seen. Tight end Tyler Conklin was the third-leading pass-catcher with 61 receptions and ranked fourth for the Minnesota Vikings in receiving yards with 593.
Getting their top tight end back along with talented players like Foster Moreau and Dallin Holke should provide a nice shot in the arm.
