The Carolina Panthers drafted rookie DJ Johnson in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, bringing in some depth at the edge rusher position. While receiving limited opportunities overall, Johnson started three games while the Panthers worked around injuries. Those starts provided an opportunity to assess Johnson in the run and the pass game. Where are his strengths?
Reviewing Carolina Panthers Rookie DJ Johnson’s Year
Consistency in Run Defense
DJ Johnson was utilized in run situations on 58% percent of his snaps, according to PFF. During those snaps, he managed to record minimal splash plays, forcing only one tackle for loss. That said, his defensive skills came through in how he played within the system and successfully prevented large gains.
One of the most notable aspects of Johnson’s run defense was that opposing teams often ran away from his side of the field. This was most notable in his first start against the Indianapolis Colts. It would stand to reason that an offense would want to test a young player getting his first start. Yet, as the game progressed, the Colts frequently ran to the opposite side of the field, avoiding Johnson altogether.
Additionally, Johnson lined up on different sides of the field during that game. The Colts were not just running one direction behind a stout offensive linemen all game. They were seemingly avoiding Johnson’s side of the ball. While it is hard to determine whether this was truly attributable to Johnson, it is nonetheless a notable outcome of having him on the field. Being able to dictate opposing teams is one of the best qualities a player can bring.
Outside of the Colts avoiding Johnson, he displayed a solid ability to set the edge during his starts, forcing opposing running backs inside for a short gain. This skillset allowed Johnson to remain a plus player despite the lack of splash plays. Johnson did enough in the run game to allow for continued development, but what about his pass-rush ability?
Lack of Creativity in Pass Rush Situations
The tape tells the story of the Carolina Panthers rookie pass-rush ability. In his first year, Johnson lacked creativity on passing downs. He consistently relied on bull rushes to close in the pocket, becoming predictable and allowing opposing linemen to square up on him.
As such, Johnson failed to create significant pressure on opposing quarterbacks, recording only two pressures in his three starts according to PFF. That said, he managed to prevent opposing quarterbacks from having the space to evade the pocket, enabling other players to force pressure.
Johnson’s biggest snags came when players faked pass protection against him and then leaked out to become a receiver. On multiple occasions, an opposing offensive player came to block Johnson, only to release and catch a pass for a solid gain. Without knowing their assignments, this could have been a failure of the players behind Johnson. Nonetheless, he will benefit from recognizing these disguises as he moves into year two.
Where does DJ Johnson sit after his rookie season with the Carolina Panthers?
Overall, Johnson was more impactful in the run game. He could benefit from more creative approaches when rushing the passer, enabling him to get around opposing linemen. Because of his run game success, he should continue to receive snaps on early downs, enabling him to continue developing as a pass rusher in year two.
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