The Tennessee Titans officially released former Pro Bowl running back Chris Johnson on Friday, opening the opportunity for the New York Jets and the New York Giants to land the productive rusher.

The 28-year-old Johnson saw his days in Tennessee come to an end after six seasons with the Titans. Johnson managed to top 1,000 yards in every single season and shattered the 2,000-yard barrier, which earned him the AP Offensive Player of the Year award in 2009.

Sources told Sports Illustrated that Johnson wants to find a team that can give him the chance to start and contribute again. Both New York teams have become the early front-runners for the veteran running back. Meanwhile, clubs such as the Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Bears, Arizona Cardinals and the St. Louis Rams are also viewed as potential suitors for Johnson.

Multiple sources indicated the Jets have had interest in Johnson ever since the Titans' plan to release the rusher was disclosed several weeks ago. NFL insider Ian Rapoport felt the Jets decided to pass on Pro Bowl wideout DeSean Jackson to save more money for Johnson.

"#Jets have been reluctant to dive into DeSean Jackson derby, but perhaps they're allotting money for Chris Johnson. There is some interest," Rapoport posted on his Twitter account last week.

Meanwhile, the Giants are another squad that could make a run for Johnson after losing integral parts of their Super Bowl-winning teams during the past two seasons. There are reports the Giants are trying to form a tandem consisting of Rashad Jennings and Johnson in the backfield, while David Wilson's comeback remains uncertain.

"The Giants already have signed ex-Raider Rashad Jennings this offseason, so the addition of another veteran back might indicate that they're not expecting David Wilson (neck) to be ready for the start of 2014. The balance between Jennings and Johnson would be similar to that of Ivory and Johnson," NFL Sports Illustrated reported.