DE, Michael Johnson, Georgia Tech

DE, Michael Johnson, Georgia Tech

Pros:  Rare athleticism for the position, making a switch to outside linebacker possible at the next level. ... Lanky, athletic frame with the room for considerable growth.

Cons:  Is an unfinished product who needs to be more consistent in his technique and effort. ... May be relegated to a role as a pass-rush specialist at defensive end until he gains more strength.

Styg's Broncos Fit:  Though inconsistent, and not quite the strong type of anchor we should be looking at, he has a tall (6'7") frame with lots of potential to add more build without affecting his first step.  Very good chance that he translates better to a strongside OLB prospect, but his potential on the line is undeniable, and his athleticism could be harnessed best there, as his drop-back coverage skills are non-existent.  He needs to get significantly stronger and work on his technique to prevent his height from hurting him more than it helps. Also needs to improve his situational awareness, and learn to get his hands up.  Overall, might not be the best project to take on for a team in desperate need of talent on the D-Line.  His high draft stock puts him way out of Denver's reach, but players have plummeted before, and Johnson could be a valuable backup with starter potential.

Around MHR:

Around SBNation:

From "An Interview with Rob Rang" At Revenge of the Birds:

- It is tough to argue with Johnson's production while at Georgia Tech, but he has the raw tools that should have generated even more. He has an explosive first step, rare speed, surprising power and the agility to drop back in coverage and flatten out to cover the run. He is not the sum of his parts on the football field, however. He has the tools to be a Pro Bowler and was ranked as college football's elite senior prospect by many entering the year, but plays too hot and cold for my blood.

From Scouting Report at Mocking the Draft:

A specimen as a prospect, Johnson has the tools to be a special player. He’s athletic for a defensive end and has good quickness off the snap. Great initial burst to beat slower offensive linemen. Incredibly long-limbed player. Can cover a lot of ground quickly. Does a good job when he keeps low and can dip under offensive tackles. Sound tackler. Does a great job getting his hands up against passes and kicks.

Highlights:

Scouting Reports and Offsite Links:

• “He always wanted to be a marine. He wanted to be a marine like dad,” the elder Johnson said Monday at Georgia Tech’s Pro Day.
  
  The corps will not sign this recruit. He’s set to play in the NFL and could be selected as high as late in the first or early second round of April’s draft.
  
  Johnson started playing football at age 10. In high school, the elder Johnson knew his son would play in college. But the sport was still up in the air. Johnson was a decent basketball player and turned down an offer from Auburn.  [see more...]
• Was a backup who entered the game in passing situations his first three seasons with the Yellow Jackets and didn't start until his senior year...Named 1st Team All-ACC in 2008...Was a finalist for both the Bednarik and Hendricks Awards as a senior...Some feel he could also project to outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme...The type who will make one or two amazing plays then disappear for the rest of the game...Not nearly as impressive on film as his stats and measurables would lead you to believe...Has the physical tools to be great but needs to be a lot more consistent...Status as a top prospect is a product of potential and hype...One-dimensional "Workout Warrior" who will likely be drafted earlier than he should be...Finesse player who won't be able to handle an every down role in the NFL and profiles as a 43 pass rush specialist.   [see more...]
• Johnson's draft stock is dropping as fast as, well stocks. Once considered a top ten pick, Johnson is now teetering between the first and second round. He skipped out on the Senior Bowl to prepare for the NFL Combine, which might not be a bad move for him. His athleticism will shine in Indianapolis and that should be enough to at least keep him in the first round.   [see more...]
•  It goes without question that Johnson is one of the most athletically gifted college players in quite some time.  Few players can equal his astounding burst off the ball and his ability to hit with force and cause fumbles.  He projects as a hybrid end/LB type with the potential to be dominating at either.  He has long arms to keep defenders at bay, changes directions effortlessly and closes faster than anyone I’ve ever seen.  [see more...]
• One of the top defensive ends in college football and a likely first-round NFL draft pick... named first team All-American (AFCA)... a first team All-ACC selection... a member of most special teams... one of three team captains... a menacing figure at 6-7... led the team and ranked third in the ACC in tackles-for-loss (17.5).   [see more...]
• Michael Johnson was raved about going into the 2008 collegiate season, but it was all based on projections, not actually production. He did put up a decent season as a senior, totaling 7 sacks, but overall was inconsistent. He definitely looks the part of an NFL player and could develop into a star; however his game film is disappointing. At least initially, he is better suited to be a 3-4 OLB or a 4-3 end that only plays in obvious passing situation. With his size and athleticism, He may be one of the most over hyped players in the draft, but he still has the ability to develop into a star if he can put it all together. Very much a high risk, high reward player.   [see more...]
• Possesses the quintessential physical skill set of an outside speed rusher. Displays natural flexibility and first-step explosiveness off the snap with the length and body control to consistently reach the corner. Showcases a strong swat against tackles on the outside. Displays great length to keep blockers off of his body and sniffs the ball out on the outside. Redirects cleanly in space. Showcases great closing speed when he gets a step.  [see more...]
• Although he was just a one-year starter during his college career, he has all the physical tools to become a dominant pass rusher in the NFL, and should develop into an every-down player once he fills out his long, lean frame. He has excellent quickness and agility, along with excellent closing speed. He also has a long wingspan to help fight off blockers and knock down passes.   [see more...]