Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Clay Johnston (Baylor) - 2020 NFL Draft Pick #234 by LAR

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Clay Johnston - 2020 NFL Draft

Clay Johnston, a linebacker from Baylor University, entered the 2020 NFL Draft with a solid college career that showcased his skills and potential. Here's a comprehensive analysis of his pre-draft evaluation:

Strengths:

• Instincts: Johnston displayed exceptional football intelligence and instincts, allowing him to read plays quickly and react effectively.
• Tackling: Known for his sure tackling ability, he consistently wrapped up ball carriers and was effective in stopping plays at the line of scrimmage.
• Leadership: As a team captain at Baylor, Johnston demonstrated strong leadership qualities and an ability to motivate teammates on and off the field.
• Work Ethic: His dedication to improving his skills and understanding of the game was evident throughout his college career.

Weaknesses:

• Injury History: Johnston struggled with injuries during his college career, which raised concerns about his durability at the professional level.
• Speed: While he was effective in many areas, his straight-line speed was considered average, which could hinder his ability to cover faster players in the NFL.
• Coverage Skills: Although he had some success in pass coverage, there were questions about his ability to match up against elite tight ends and running backs in the open field.

Overall Assessment:

Clay Johnston was viewed as a player with the potential to be a solid contributor at the linebacker position in the NFL. His combination of instincts, tackling ability, and leadership made him an appealing prospect, but concerns about his injury history and speed could impact his draft stock. Teams looking for a smart, hard-working linebacker likely viewed him as a valuable addition, particularly in the later rounds of the draft.