Bills Release Veteran CB Taron Johnson After Aaron Rodgers Endorsement

The cornerback could be a free-agent target for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Mar. 7, 2026 at 9:08pm

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The Buffalo Bills have released veteran cornerback Taron Johnson, just days after Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers praised him as "one of the most underrated players in the league" on "The Pat McAfee Show". Johnson, a 2023 second-team Associated Press All-Pro, spent the first eight seasons of his career with the Bills and could be an attractive free-agent target for the Pittsburgh Steelers, who may have a need at the position.

Why it matters

The Steelers have a hole to fill at cornerback opposite their top corner, Joey Porter Jr. With James Pierre and Asante Samuel Jr. both set to hit free agency, Pittsburgh may look to add an experienced and talented player like Johnson to their secondary.

The details

Johnson played in 113 games for the Bills, starting 87. Over that span, he tallied six interceptions, 48 passes defended, eight forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries and 572 combined tackles. Rodgers praised Johnson's ability to "play a box linebacker and stop the run, and he can cover guys", indicating his versatility and well-rounded skill set.

  • The Bills released Taron Johnson on Friday, March 6, 2026.
  • Aaron Rodgers spoke about Johnson on "The Pat McAfee Show" just a few days prior to his release.

The players

Taron Johnson

A veteran cornerback who was released by the Buffalo Bills after eight seasons with the team. He was a 2023 second-team Associated Press All-Pro.

Aaron Rodgers

The quarterback of the Green Bay Packers, who recently praised Johnson as "one of the most underrated players in the league" on his podcast.

Joey Porter Jr.

The Pittsburgh Steelers' top cornerback, who has emerged as a standout player since being drafted in the second round in 2023.

James Pierre

A cornerback for the Pittsburgh Steelers who is set to become a free agent.

Asante Samuel Jr.

A cornerback for the Pittsburgh Steelers who is also set to become a free agent.

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What they’re saying

“I think Buffalo did this more than anybody, playing nickel to every personnel, because Taron Johnson is one of the best players in the league. He's one of the most underrated players in the league. He can play a box linebacker and stop the run, and he can cover guys.”

— Aaron Rodgers (The Pat McAfee Show)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.