Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Chris Johnson (Louisville) - 2003 NFL Draft Pick #245 by GB

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Chris Johnson - 2003 NFL Draft

Chris Johnson, a running back from the University of Louisville, entered the 2003 NFL Draft with considerable attention and expectations. Here’s a breakdown of his pre-draft analysis:

Strengths:

• Speed: Johnson was renowned for his incredible straight-line speed, often regarded as one of the fastest players in college football.
• Elusiveness: His ability to make defenders miss in the open field made him a dangerous threat on any play.
• Versatility: Johnson showcased the ability to be a dual-threat back, capable of contributing both in the rushing and passing games.
• Production: He had a productive college career, accumulating impressive statistics that demonstrated his capability to perform at a high level.

Weaknesses:

• Size: At around 5'11" and 200 pounds, there were concerns about his ability to handle the physicality of the NFL.
• Blocking Skills: There were questions regarding his effectiveness in pass protection, which could limit his playing time on certain downs.

Overall Assessment:

Chris Johnson was viewed as a dynamic playmaker with the potential to be a game-changer at the next level. His speed and agility set him apart from many of his peers, making him a coveted prospect for teams looking to bolster their backfield. However, concerns about his size and blocking abilities could impact his draft stock.

As the draft approached, analysts projected Johnson as a mid to late-round pick, with the possibility of being selected earlier by a team seeking a home-run threat in their offense.