Injury produces opportunity for Panthers' Johnson

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Landon Johnson came to Carolina armed with a big contract and a gaudy resume.

Twenty months later, Johnson likely will finally get the opportunity to start full-time — by default — after the season-ending knee injury to weakside linebacker Thomas Davis.

For Johnson, who led Cincinnati in tackles in three of his first four pro seasons, it's a chance to jump-start a once-promising career.

Johnson failed to win a starting job last year despite signing a three-year, $10 million deal. He was mostly a special teams player this season, too, until Davis' injury.

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Nov 11, 2009 - 7:36 p.m. EDT

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