National Football League

John Johnson, S, Boston College: 2017 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Updated Mar. 5, 2020 12:18 a.m. ET

share

facebookxredditlink

Fansided, Erik Lambert/FanSided via NFL Mocks

Oct 7, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Boston College Eagles defensive back John Johnson (9) during the first quarter against Clemson at Alumni Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports

John Johnson faces an uphill climb for respectability in the 2017 NFL draft. Does his scouting report reflect the needed potential?

Position: S

School: Boston College

Year: Senior

Height: 6’1″

Weight: 202 lbs

History:

A football and basketball star in high school who not only made plays but emerged as a leader of men. Landed at Boston College due to their strong defensive background and academics. Saw action almost immediately as a freshman. Had a chance to go pro as a junior but chose to finish school instead.

STRENGTHS:

This play showcased so many of the good things about Johnson. It starts with the range and how he’s able to run down a wide receiver from one side of the field to the other. Then it’s the tackler. He doesn’t just dive to trip the guy up. He executes a textbook form-fit tackles to eliminate any hope of breaking. Then it’s the simple feel in space and navigating around obstacles to find the football.

WEAKNESSES:

Pro Comparison:  Micah Hyde

Hyde took some time to figure out his role in the Green Bay Packers defense but he has found it and has really grown into well. He made a lot of big plays for them in 2016. A sort of cornerback/safety hybrid who can play near the line of scrimmage but has coverage skills. A “tweener” in the good way. Hyde may not have star power but he’s got plenty of value.

Projection:  2nd-3rd Round

Johnson has all the tools of a potential stud at the safety position. Maybe not a head hunter but a reliable tackler with above-average ball skills in coverage. In the modern NFL he is what teams seek. Unfortunately playing at a less advertised program and being lost in a loaded class makes him a likely Day 2 selection. Which means one team out there could get a steal.

More from NFL Mocks

This article originally appeared on

share

Get more from National Football League Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more

in this topic

National Football League