Earl Johnson (College Stats) - 1986 NFL Draft Pick #236 by NO
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Earl Johnson (1986 NFL Draft)
Player Profile:
Earl Johnson was a standout collegiate athlete known for his impressive performance at the college level. As a versatile player, he demonstrated a mix of skills that made him an attractive prospect for NFL teams.
College Stats:
- Position: Offensive Tackle
- College: University of Virginia
- Games Played: 36
- Games Started: 24
- Key Stats:
- Allowed only 3 sacks over two seasons
- Registered 40+ pancake blocks
Strengths:
- Footwork: Johnson showcased exceptional agility for an offensive lineman, allowing him to effectively protect the quarterback and block for running backs.
- Strength: He possessed the necessary physical strength to handle powerful defensive linemen, which was evident in his ability to dominate in one-on-one matchups.
- Football IQ: Johnson displayed a high level of understanding of defensive schemes, enabling him to make quick adjustments on the field.
Weaknesses:
- Injury History: There were concerns about his durability, as he had a history of minor injuries that could affect his longevity in the NFL.
- Technique Refinement: While he had raw talent, scouts believed there was room for improvement in his hand placement and foot positioning.
Projected Draft Round:
Based on his college performance and potential, Earl Johnson was projected to be selected in the
2nd to 3rd round of the 1986 NFL Draft.
Conclusion:
Earl Johnson was regarded as a promising offensive tackle with the potential to develop into a solid starter in the NFL. His combination of size, agility, and football intelligence made him an appealing option for teams looking to bolster their offensive line.