Bengals release Josh Johnson, making McCarron the backup QB
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}CINCINNATI (AP) The Bengals released quarterback Josh Johnson on Tuesday, making AJ McCarron the backup to Andy Dalton.
McCarron impressed during a 25-11 preseason loss at Tampa Bay on Monday night, going 11 of 15 for 97 yards. He led an 80-yard touchdown drive.
McCarron, a fifth-round pick from Alabama last year, missed his rookie season with a sore passing shoulder. He also sat out the first preseason game with a pulled muscle in his side. Johnson was 11 of 21 for 175 yards in the first game, but didn't play on Monday night.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The backup quarterback role was one of Cincinnati's biggest questions in camp.
The Bengals also waived safety Erick Dargan and defensive tackle Kalafitoni Pole, a pair of college free agents.
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