The Tennessee Titans have made it a point this offseason that they want Chris Johnson to take a pay cut. Johnson, on the other hand, refused to compromise forcing the Titans to seek a trade. In the past 24 hours, players such as Julius Peppers, Steve Smith and Darrelle Revis have faced a similar situation. The difference between the cases is that three of the players are getting national attention and are considered team-changing signings.

Dare I say Chris Johnson is becoming underrated going into free agency?

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Johnson is the “face of the franchise” in Tennessee and at his worst is still a serviceable running back. He isn’t too far removed from his CJ2K season and yet his market is rumored to be slim. A team will take a chance on Johnson and he will pay dividends for his price tag. Johnson is due to make $8 million with the Titans in 2014, but after he is on the open market he will be lucky to see $5 million.

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Johnson still has years in his prime remaining and both he and the Titans need a fresh start in 2014. It is very unlikely that Johnson will return to his CJ2K form and even less likely he will run for 2,000 yards ever again.

A divorce is imminent between and Johnson could end up being a steal for a running back needy team in the coming weeks. If and when Johnson is released, expect the Dolphins be the first to call followed by the Giants and even the Cardinals.

Is Johnson underrated? Would you want him on your team? Tell us @SportsWN