OVERALL TRAITS
Size-Strength-Speed
Plays much bigger and more physical than his listed weight would suggest that this stage. Is very tall and very long, but lacks bulk to his frame that this stage and is only going to continue to fill out over time. Given his lanky appearance, he is extremely smooth and fluid and shows body coordination to be a precise runner. Is never going to be a guy that takes the top off a defense in terms of pure speed, but plays the game faster than his listed times.
Separation Skills
Drives off the ball with good purpose and quickness. Can quickly get into routes, is very decisive in his steps and can smoothly round cuts given his high-cut frame. Shows the ability to stop/start quickly without having to gear down much. Is more on underneath route runner as well as a vertical stretch guy at this level. Needs to develop more nuance as an intermediate level route runner. Shows the ability to quickly stick his foot in the ground and explode out of cuts which makes his speed tough to gauge for defenders.
Ball Skills
Possesses really good hands. Shows quick hands that naturally pluck on the move. Quickly transitions upfield after the catch and wastes little time putting moves together. Has a wide catch radius and provides a margin of error for the quarterback. Secures the football clean and away from his frame in traffic and is not afraid to work the middle of the field. Has huge redzone potential due to his size and arm length. Ability to elevate and adjust to poorly thrown footballs while in the air is really sound.
Big Play Ability
Better than you might think given his listed speed. Size a competitive acceleration allows for him to be a factor vertically. Is quick enough to make the first defender miss after the catch and extend plays. Makes a lot of plays when covered or contested and is a guy you can trust to come down with the jump ball on a consistent basis down the sideline. Does not show lapses in concentration and is reliable both on the outside and in the slot. Attacks the football with playmaking instincts.
Bottom Line
Johnson's biggest point of emphasis will be to add strength and bulk to his frame with considerable time in the weightroom. He has the measurables you look for, terrific ball skills and a penchant for making plays. We like his body quickness and coordination on a tall frame.
Underclassman Eval
STRENGTHS: Johnson is a tall receiver who knows how to set up defensive backs with smooth route running in order to get open. Will make the catch with his hands away from his body. Beginning to understand defensive schemes and how to settle vs. zone coverage. Very willing to block downfield for other ball carriers. ...
AREAS OF IMPROVEMENT: Has good speed but not consistent breakaway speed. Runs a lot of the same routes, so he will need to develop and expand into more different routes. ...
BOTTOM LINE: Johnson is an athlete who has the ability to be a productive college receiver. With the expansion and practice of his route running, he should become an even more effective receiver.
-ESPN Scouting Report