Kerryon Johnson (Auburn) - 2018 NFL Draft Pick #43 by DET
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Kerryon Johnson - Pre-Draft Analysis (2018 NFL Draft)
College: Auburn University
Position: Running Back
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 212 lbs
Overview
Kerryon Johnson emerged as one of the top running back prospects in the 2018 NFL Draft after a standout career at Auburn. He was known for his combination of vision, power, and agility, making him a versatile option in the backfield.
Strengths
- Vision: Johnson displayed excellent field vision, allowing him to identify running lanes and make quick cuts.
- Balance: He showcased great balance and body control, making it difficult for defenders to bring him down.
- Pass-catching ability: Johnson was effective in the passing game, displaying reliable hands and the ability to run routes out of the backfield.
- Durability: Despite some injury concerns in college, he demonstrated resilience and the ability to carry a heavy workload.
- Football IQ: His understanding of the game and ability to read defenses set him apart from many other prospects.
Weaknesses
- Injury history: Johnson had some injury issues during his college career, raising concerns about his long-term durability.
- Elite speed: While he had a good burst, he did not possess elite straight-line speed, which could limit his big-play potential at the NFL level.
- Pass protection: He needed to improve his skills in pass protection to be an every-down back in the NFL.
Draft Projection
Kerryon Johnson was projected to be selected in the second or third round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Teams looking for a well-rounded running back with the potential to be a feature back would be particularly interested in his skill set.
Conclusion
Kerryon Johnson offered a compelling combination of skills that made him an attractive option for NFL teams in the 2018 Draft. His ability to contribute both as a runner and receiver out of the backfield, combined with his football intelligence, positioned him as a valuable asset for any offense.