Johnson, a three-year starter, was a restricted free agent before he signed a one-year, $712,000 US deal on Thursday. He wanted to stay in Cincinnati long-term, and had agent Peter Schaffer continue negotiations.

The new deal replaces his 2006 contract and adds five more years, keeping him signed through 2011. He'll get an average of $1.5 million per year.

"He pushed very hard to get this done," coach Marvin Lewis said.

Johnson was a fourth-round pick from Western Kentucky in 2003. He has been Rudi Johnson's primary blocker, helping him run for more than 2,900 yards over the last two seasons.

He also carried eight times for 14 yards last season, and caught 12 passes for 65 yards and three touchdowns.