Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Essex Johnson () - 1968 NFL Draft Pick #156 by CIN

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Essex Johnson

College: Louisiana State University (LSU)
Position: Running Back
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 195 lbs

Overview

Essex Johnson was a standout running back at LSU, known for his combination of speed, agility, and vision on the field. His impressive college career made him a notable prospect heading into the 1968 NFL Draft.

Strengths

• Speed: Johnson possesses excellent straight-line speed, allowing him to break away from defenders.
• Agility: His quick cuts and lateral movement make him difficult to tackle in open space.
• Vision: Demonstrates an ability to read defenses and find running lanes effectively.
• Durability: Played multiple seasons at a high level without significant injuries.

Weaknesses

• Blocking Skills: Needs to improve his pass protection and blocking ability to excel at the professional level.
• Consistency: At times, his performance fluctuated, leading to questions about his reliability in crucial situations.

Projected Draft Position

Essex Johnson was projected to be selected in the early to mid-rounds of the 1968 NFL Draft, with many scouts believing he had the potential to be a starting running back in the right system.

Comparison

Johnson's playing style has been compared to several successful NFL running backs, with some analysts drawing parallels to players known for their speed and elusiveness, suggesting he could carve out a significant role in a run-focused offense.

Conclusion

Essex Johnson was viewed as a promising talent in the 1968 draft class, with the potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL, especially if he could refine his skills and adapt to the professional game.