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Photo of Ian Johnson
Grade
?
  • 4.46 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 26 REPS
    Top Performer
  • 33.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 116.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 6.93 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 4.18 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 11.63 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 5'11" Height
  • 212LBS. Weight

Overview

Johnson is probably the most famous player ever to come out of Boise because of his All-American sophomore season (1,713 rushing yards, 25 touchdowns) and impromptu marriage proposal in the end zone after the Broncos' big New Year's Day 2007 win over Oklahoma. But Johnson's production declined to 1,041 yards as a junior and 766 yards as a senior, mostly because his number of carries was reduced by about a third each year.

He did get more opportunities to catch the ball the past two seasons, averaging 24 receptions for 271 yards. While not particularly big, fast or quick, Johnson's fortitude, durability (he played in 49 games), receiving skills and potential on special teams could well land him a roster spot. Had an arm span of 31 inches and a hand span of 9 1/2 inches at the combine.

Analysis

Strengths

Positives: Very good vision. Anticipates the hole and attacks it. Runs a bit high, but lowers his shoulders around defenders and isn't afraid of contact. Keeps his legs driving to fight for the tough yards, but is more of a finesse runner whose lateral quickness and quick acceleration generates the bulk of his production. Slippery runner who breaks a lot of tackles. Deceptive speed for his upright running style and has quick acceleration. May lack elite breakaway speed, but gets to top speed quickly and can separate from the initial wave of defenders to gain yardage in chunks. Developing receiver who catches the ball cleanly and quickly turns upfield. Negatives: Staggering sophomore production influenced by Boise State's offense. Unusual build for a running back, as Johnson has narrow shoulders and hips. Lacks elite timed speed. Runs a bit upright, leading to unnecessary punishment. Struggled with injuries as a sophomore and junior, leading to a decrease in playing time and raising questions about his durability. Has missed all or significant portions of games throughout his career due to a variety of injuries, including a punctured lung, bruised kidneys and torn knee ligaments. Will need an extensive medical check.
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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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