ForumsChandler, AZ.- Typically when Oregon sends out an offensive line offer, few question the decision by coach Greatwood and coach Kelly. They have issued Hamilton high offensive lineman Tyler Johnstone an offer and it has certainly made an impact. The 6’5″ 260 pound lineman has not only added an Oregon offer, he also holds several other. Hamilton is no stranger to offensive lineman stars, they have already seen class of 2011 star Christian Westerman sign on to play with the Texas Longhorns. While Tyler may not hold a Texas offer, he holds many other top offers from around the country.
“I’m up to 16 offers now. Duke, Boise State, TCU, UNLV, and Washington are my most recent ones. I’m hearing from Stanford, some from Cal, USC a lot right now. I’m going to Rising Stars to work out, the USC coaches told me they want to see me work out at that. Cal said they would offer depending on a couple other guys, they said they would let me know in July. I’ve been to ASU and Arizona for unofficial visits, and Cal for a junior day. After Rising stars I’m going to UCLA for a quick visit, and that will be it. Well actually I’m also going to Tennessee later this summer. My girlfriend’s dad is a huge Tennessee fan and he’s taking me out there, but I’ve never spoken to anyone from there.”
This past weekend Tyler had a big trip up north to a couple of Pac-10 schools.
“I just visited Oregon and Oregon State. I went to a half day camp at Oregon on Friday and then to Oregon State on Saturday. The whole thing went really well, I was so impressed with how well put together the Oregon camp was. They said they tried to make it as much like an official visit as possible and it was. It was very in depth, it was just real impressive. The facilities were off the wall, they are just ridiculous. Eugene is a nice town. I’m trying to put together a top 5 list by the end of summer. I don’t think Oregon will have any issues making the list. I’m pretty sure they want me as a tackle, everyone is talking tackle mostly. Oregon said they want me to learn all the positions just in case, but I will likely end up at left tackle.”
Last year Tyler played offensive lineman, but only weighed around 225 pounds. This year he is already up to 260 and figures to add even more by the start of his senior season.
“Most coaches talk about my athleticism, my versatility, and that I’m pretty good at getting downfield. But mostly my athleticism is the main point. I want to work on finishing my blocks more and getting stronger.”
Right now the plan is to make a mid-season commitment. Tyler hopes to at least take 3 official visits before deciding. He also mentioned he’d like to hear more from Notre Dame, Michigan, Michigan State, and the SEC schools.
When Tyler is not busy playing football or working out, he’s busy doing one thing.
“Playing video games, I love to play games. Right now I’m playing Red Dead Redemption, awesome game.”
ESPN Scouts Inc Evaluation:
Johnstone is very athletic and quick coming off the ball. Has the height for the offensive tackle position at the major level of competition; but must add weight to his frame over time. Demonstrates accurate long and short snapping ability. Shows very good flexibility, balance and agility; comes off the ball low and hard from a three point stance; flashes good explosion initial fit and pad level when drive blocking; lacks great playing strength at this stage of his development however his blocking base and leg drive allow him to sustain and get movement when drive blocking. This player exhibits the initial quickness to block active 1st and 2nd level defenders; can get a hat on linebackers with good finishing results, showing the ability to play on his feet in space. Demonstrates the ability to reach and gain leverage on shaded defenders; is quick out of his stance when asked to pull / and trap, showing good balance and agility in the open field. We see this player capable of making all the necessary run blocks at the next level of play. Displays good quick set ability; can slide and bend but needs to improve his initial punch, location and extension. Needs to improve his base as he tends to drop his head and lean in; his nimble feet, long arms and quick hands will be assets. The extra effort downfield along with his aggressive tough finishing attitude is what we like to see from offensive linemen. Johnstone may need some time and perhaps a red shirt year to grow physically and refine his techniques; once this is accomplished he should have a long and productive career at the BCS level of play.
Notes
2009: First team all-region as a long-snapper. Honorable mention all-conference as an offensive lineman… Also recruited by: Colorado, New Mexico, San Diego State, Washington State…
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