Report: Titans weren't happy with Chris Johnson's work ethic

Running back Chris Johnson is a former member of the Tennessee Titans for several reasons - money, scheme and a desire to start fresh among them - but an under-reported reason for the former 2,000-yard rusher's recent release could be his attitude.

Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean reports that Johnson "rubbed team officials wrong because of what they felt was a questionable work ethic and laid-back approach."

Wyatt points out that Johnson didn't miss meetings, rarely missed practice and never missed a start in his Titans career, but he also notes that Johnson "wasn't the first guy in the meeting room."

With new head coach Ken Whisenhunt running the show in Nashville, the Titans apparently want a fresh start with players who will dedicate themselves to improving more than Johnson did.

Johnson's release is expected to become official on Monday. At that time, we'll see how much other teams are concerned about the veteran tailback's work ethic. Several teams are reportedly interested in acquiring Johnson's services, but the running back market has been cold as ice this offseason.