Raiders face growing problem with Taron Johnson ahead of training camp

The Las Vegas Raiders head into training camp with heightened uncertainty surrounding nickelback Taron Johnson, despite major offseason upgrades. After trading for Johnson from the Buffalo Bills in March, ESPN’s Ryan McFadden reported that Johnson’s contract has become a central storyline. Although Johnson remains under contract through 2028, only $1.2 million of his $8.1 million base salary is guaranteed this season, and there is no guaranteed money in 2027. That structure, McFadden said, could force the Raiders to revisit the deal and add guarantees to satisfy both sides. Johnson, drafted in the fourth round in 2018 out of Weber State, recorded 572 tackles, eight sacks, eight forced fumbles, six interceptions, and 48 pass breakups across eight seasons in Buffalo. The Raiders counter with newly drafted defensive back Treydan Stukes, a 6-foot-2, 200-pound safety with 52 tackles, 10 passes defensed, four interceptions, and one sack in 2025. Still, Johnson is the most likely option for the nickel role.