If Vanderbilt senior left tackle Wesley Johnson hears his name called in the 2014 NFL Draft, his performance Saturday in the Commodores' upset of Georgia might be a significant reason why.
On Monday, Johnson was named the Southeastern Conference's offensive lineman of the week. SEC coaching staffs submit nominations to the league for various awards, and support those nominations, at times, with some numbers that escape the eye of media and fans on Saturdays. That was the case here, as the VU staff credited Johnson with a whopping 12 knockdown blocks against the Bulldogs.
Two blocks in particular, neither of which were knockdowns, illustrate both Johnson's strength and athleticism. Below, on the first play of the SEC's official highlights from the game, see Johnson (#67, left tackle) handle standout Bulldogs linebacker Jordan Jenkins at the point of attack to spring the Commodores' first touchdown. Then, at the 1:00 mark, watch as Johnson shows the ability to reach the second level of the defense and wipe out Georgia junior safety Corey Moore (6-foot-2, 215 pounds) to pave the way for the game-winning score.
At 295 pounds, he would be small for an NFL left tackle. However, he has experience at every position on the offensive line, and his versatility could also be a significant factor in his draft status next spring. Johnson is considered a late-round prospect.
This weekend, Johnson should have his way again against a porous Texas A&M defensive front seven. Following that, Johnson will get a stiff test on the road at Florida, likely against one of the SEC's top pass rushers in Dante Fowler.
*Follow Chase Goodbread on Twitter **@ChaseGoodbread.*
