Positives: Rare athleticism for the position, making a switch to outside linebacker possible at the next level. ... Lanky, athletic frame with the room for considerable growth. ... Gained upper- and lower-body strength in his senior year and flashed the ability to bull rush tackles into the backfield. ... Takes advantage of his long arms to keep pass blockers at a distance. ... Able to keep tackles off his knees to avoid the cut block. ... Locates the ball quickly and can re-direct his charge. ... Good lateral agility and balance. ... Good straight-line speed. ... Accelerates quickly and has legitimate closing ability. ... Flashes the ability to punch, rip off and back up tackles using his length and increasing strength. ... Able to drop quickly, handle coverage responsibilities in the flat and has the hands to break up or intercept balls thrown in his area. ... Reads the quarterback's eyes to get hands in passing lanes. ... Able to force fumbles using his length to get a hand on the ball.
Negatives: Is an unfinished product who needs to be more consistent in his technique and effort. ... May be relegated to a role as a pass-rush specialist at defensive end until he gains more strength. ... Too often relies on his speed to the outside to generate his pass rush, losing all gap responsibility. ... Inconsistent in his explosiveness off the ball and as a tackler. ... Has the speed and length to make life difficult for NFL tackles but must give more constant effort. ... Washed out when blockers (even smaller tight ends) get into his pads; his height is a detriment in those situations. ... Tends to stand around too much instead of chasing plays. ... Johnson has struggled with various injuries over his career.
