Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Randy Johnson () - 1966 NFL Draft Pick #16 by ATL

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Randy Johnson - 1966 NFL Draft

Player Profile:

• Name: Randy Johnson
• College: University of Southern California
• Position: Defensive End
• Height: 6'5"
• Weight: 250 lbs

Overview:

Randy Johnson was a standout defensive end at USC, known for his combination of size, speed, and athleticism. His performance in college football made him one of the most highly regarded prospects heading into the 1966 NFL Draft.

Strengths:

• Physical Attributes: Johnson's height and weight gave him a significant advantage over many offensive linemen. His long arms allowed him to shed blockers effectively.
• Pass Rush Ability: He displayed an explosive first step and a variety of pass rush moves, making him a consistent threat to quarterbacks.
• Run Defense: Johnson was adept at setting the edge and was instrumental in stopping the run, showcasing his ability to read plays quickly.
• Work Ethic: Coaches praised his dedication to improving his skills and understanding of the game.

Areas for Improvement:

• Technique: While Johnson had raw talent, there were concerns about his technical skills, particularly in hand placement and leverage.
• Consistency: At times, his performance fluctuated, which raised questions about his ability to perform at a high level week in and week out.

Draft Projection:

Most analysts projected Randy Johnson to be selected in the early rounds of the draft, with many teams eager to add his talent to their defensive line. His potential to become a game-changing player made him a coveted prospect.

Conclusion:

Randy Johnson's combination of size, athleticism, and college performance positioned him as one of the top prospects of the 1966 NFL Draft. His ability to impact both the pass and run game made him a player to watch as teams prepared to make their selections.