Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

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.