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Photo of Bruce Johnson
Grade
?
  • 4.46 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 6 REPS
    Top Performer
  • 34.5 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 125.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 6.71 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 4.05 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 5'9" Height
  • 170LBS. Weight

Overview

Johnson impressed scouts with his coverage skills and speed as a first-year starter in 2007, and showed more of the same as a senior. Although he has not put up great statistics (two interceptions, 11 pass breakups, three tackles for loss), Johnson's slight build hides a perfect cover attitude of "bring it," much like his cousin and former UM corner Kelly Jennings (Seahawks). Johnson's speed allowed him to compete on the Miami track team as a sprinter, and he averaged 8.1 yards on 23 punt returns and 21.7 yards on 15 kickoff returns in 2006.

Analysis

Strengths

Positives: Cover corner with excellent recovery and straight-line speed. ... Does not back down from larger receivers. ... Long arms that allow him to get hands on his man quickly and play the ball. ... Very sticky, changing direction quickly to keep close to his man. ... Very quick flipping hips open and staying with his man down the sideline. ... Low, fast and steady in his backpedal. ... Plays in the slot or on the outside. ... Good hands for the interception. ... Usually tries to cut to tackle, getting into the thigh of the ballcarrier, but can also wrap up in open space against quick screens. ... Has returned kickoffs, and could contribute there with his speed. ... Sticks onto gunners, protecting his punt returner. Negatives: Small frame: adequate height, thin legs, hips and upper body. ... Plays on the line, but usually just runs with the receiver instead of jamming him. ... Also lacks the strength to get off tight end and receiver blocks. ... Flips his hips open too early inside, allowing receivers to get open on stop routes. ... Needs to be more aware of receivers in zone coverage. ... Occasionally loses his balance in his backpedal. ... Sometimes comes out of the game near the goal line and plays less against rush-happy teams because of a lack of bulk and size.
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Grade Title Draft (Round) Description
96-100 Future Hall of Famer Top Pick A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played
85-95 Immediate Starter 1st An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter).
70-84 Eventual Starter 2nd-3rd A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position.
50-69 Draftable Player 4th-7th A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential.
20-49 Free Agent UDFA A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body.
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