Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Derrick Johnson (Texas) - 2005 NFL Draft Pick #15 by KC

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Derrick Johnson (2005 NFL Draft)

Derrick Johnson, a standout linebacker from the University of Texas, was one of the most highly regarded prospects leading up to the 2005 NFL Draft. His combination of size, speed, and playmaking ability made him a top candidate for selection in the first round.

Strengths:

• Speed and Athleticism: Johnson was known for his exceptional speed and quickness, making him capable of covering a lot of ground on the field. His athleticism allowed him to excel in sideline-to-sideline plays.
• Instincts: He possessed great football instincts, allowing him to read plays effectively and react quickly. This skill contributed to his ability to make tackles and disrupt offensive plays.
• Pass Coverage: Unlike many linebackers, Johnson was particularly adept at pass coverage, showcasing the ability to drop back into coverage against tight ends and running backs.
• Playmaking Ability: His knack for creating turnovers, whether through interceptions or forced fumbles, made him a valuable asset to any defense.
• Leadership: As a captain at Texas, Johnson demonstrated strong leadership qualities and was respected by teammates and coaches alike.

Weaknesses:

• Size: While he was athletic, some scouts questioned whether his size (approximately 6'1" and 230 lbs) would be sufficient to take on larger NFL running backs and tight ends consistently.
• Inconsistency: At times, Johnson could be inconsistent in his tackling technique, leading to missed tackles and opportunities for ball carriers to gain extra yards.
• Adjusting to NFL Speed: Transitioning from college to the NFL requires adapting to a faster pace, and there were concerns about how quickly he could adjust to the speed of professional offenses.

Overall Outlook:

Derrick Johnson was widely viewed as one of the top linebacker prospects in the 2005 NFL Draft, with many analysts projecting him as a potential top-10 pick. His ability to contribute immediately on defense, combined with his potential for future growth, made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their linebacker corps.