Kevin Johnson
Wake Forest, CB
Height: 6.0
Weight: 175
Age: 23
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Athleticism: B-
Is field fast and plays faster than his timed speed. Is a fluid mover, but has a slight hitch when transitioning out of his pedal, which is quick and fluid. Does not possess elite burst to recover when he gets beat. A bit on the tall side and agility is average. Used as a gunner on punt coverage.
Coverage: B
Used at both cornerback spots as a senior and played closer to the line of scrimmage than he had in the past. More experienced and effective in zone coverage. Explodes downfield in zone and doesn’t give up much after the catch. Gives up too much separation at the top of comeback routes. Not afraid to mix it up near the line, but lack of mass and arm length limits his ability to press at the next level. Has a lot of flailing movements which could get him in trouble in tight coverage.
Ball Skills: B-
More of a pass defender than a ballhawk. Adept at using his arms and body to get in the way of the pass without drawing pass interference calls. Hands are suspect and did not tally many interceptions. More of a body catcher. Value as a defender is more tied to his passes broken up than his interceptions.
Run Defense: C+
Improved greatly from last year to this year, showing some actual toughness in 2014. Plays much more aggressively when the ball is in front of him, and is more willing to use his body as a tackler. Lean framed but is more than capable of shedding receiver blocks and getting in on the play. Used occasionally on corner blitzes.
Instincts: B
Three year starter who also picked up five starts as a freshman before taking over full-time starting duties in 2012. Doesn’t often get caught out of position. Good instincts in coverage and is smart and disciplined. Flags were an irregularity.
Red Flags: Frame
Bottom Line: Compared to what I saw of him in 2013, Kevin Johnson has made great strides as a player and a prospect under new coaches Dave Clawson and Mike Elko. His interception numbers dipped, but Johnson is more aggressive, physical, and effective. Johnson is a day two lock at this point and I would imagine a starter in the NFL at some point.
Comparison: Cary Williams
Grade: 8.7 (2nd Round)
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