RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI

Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Nico Johnson (Alabama) - 2013 NFL Draft Pick #99 by KC

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Nico Johnson (2013 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:
  • Name: Nico Johnson
  • Position: Linebacker
  • College: University of Alabama
  • Height: 6'1"
  • Weight: 245 lbs
Overview:

Nico Johnson was a key member of a dominant Alabama defense during his college career. Known for his leadership on the field and exceptional tackling ability, Johnson was a reliable presence at linebacker for the Crimson Tide.

Strengths:
  • Physicality: Johnson plays with a physical style that allows him to take on blockers effectively and shed them to make tackles.
  • Run Defense: He has a strong ability to read plays and is particularly effective against the run, demonstrating excellent awareness and instincts.
  • Experience: Having played in the SEC, Johnson faced some of the best offensive talents in college football, giving him valuable experience.
  • Leadership: As a captain for Alabama, he displayed leadership qualities that are highly valued in the NFL.
Weaknesses:
  • Coverage Skills: Johnson has shown some limitations in pass coverage, which could be a concern in a league that increasingly emphasizes passing offenses.
  • Speed: While he has good size, his straight-line speed may not match that of some of the faster linebackers in the draft class.
  • Injury Concerns: There were some injury concerns during his college career that could affect his draft stock.
Draft Projection:

Nico Johnson was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 2013 NFL Draft. Teams looking for a solid run-stopping linebacker with leadership qualities and a strong college pedigree would find him an appealing option.

Conclusion:

With his experience in a winning program and his physical style of play, Nico Johnson had the potential to contribute to an NFL team, particularly in a role focused on run defense. However, concerns about his coverage abilities and speed might limit his draft position.