Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Larry Johnson (Penn St.) - 2003 NFL Draft Pick #27 by KC

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Larry Johnson - 2003 NFL Draft

Player Profile:

• Name: Larry Johnson
• College: Penn State
• Position: Running Back
• Height: 6'1"
• Weight: 230 lbs

Overview:

Larry Johnson was a standout running back at Penn State, known for his powerful running style and ability to break tackles. After a solid collegiate career, he entered the 2003 NFL Draft with high expectations and was regarded as one of the top prospects at his position.

Strengths:

• Power and Balance: Johnson showcased exceptional strength and balance, allowing him to gain yards after contact.
• Vision: He demonstrated excellent field vision, able to read blocks and find running lanes effectively.
• Speed: While primarily a power back, he possessed surprising speed for his size, making him a threat to break long runs.
• Durability: Johnson had a reputation for durability, having carried the ball extensively during his college career without significant injury issues.

Weaknesses:

• Pass Protection: Johnson needed to improve his skills in pass protection, which is critical in the NFL.
• Receiving Skills: His ability to catch passes out of the backfield was seen as a potential area of concern, limiting his versatility.

Draft Projection:

Larry Johnson was projected to be selected in the first round of the 2003 NFL Draft, with many analysts believing he would be a top-15 pick. Teams were intrigued by his combination of size, speed, and production at Penn State.

Conclusion:

Larry Johnson was viewed as a highly talented running back with the potential to become a feature back in the NFL. His college performance, coupled with physical attributes, made him a sought-after prospect in the 2003 draft class.