Cincinnati, OH (Sports Network) - Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Michael Johnson signed his franchise tender on Friday.

Johnson exploded for 11 1/2 sacks -- ninth in the NFL -- in 2012. Over four seasons with the Bengals, the Georgia Tech product has 146 tackles, 23 sacks and two interceptions.

The tag on Johnson required a one-year deal worth $11.175 million. He and the organization have until July 15 to work out a long-term contract.

03/15 12:07:12 ET