Could Storm Johnson Become Starter for Jacksonville Jaguars?

The offseason provided a major flip-flop for the Jacksonville Jaguars on both sides of the ball. Bringing in guys like Storm Johnson and Marqise Lee could prove to be very profitable for the team in the long term, but don’t be shocked to see some of these young playmakers step in right away.

The Jaguars need a difference-maker leading the way on their offense. Storm Johnson proved to be a workhorse at UCF, something that clearly stood out to Jacksonville during the draft process.

They got a steal in the 7th round and it might just show early in the 2014 season.

Many are spotlighting the addition of Toby Gerhart from Minnesota. He’s a bulldozing “fullback presence” that is supposed to lead Jedd Fisch’s offense this year, but don’t be convinced if he turns out to be another one of those typical “Jacksonville flops”.

More from NFL News

• Patriots News & Rumors: Ezekiel Elliott talks fun in Foxboro; Mills to Packers?
• NFC East Buzz: Isaiah Simmons trade, Deuce Vaughn praise, Eagles rumors & more
• Should Trey Lance be considered an NFL draft bust?
• Jonathan Taylor trade rumors: 3 most alluring fits for Colts star running back
• Tua Tagovailoa: keep ‘my name out of your mouth’; Dolphins QB sends strong message

His 2013 tape showed plenty of long runs and solid carries, but his style of play isn’t going to translate to elite starting status in the NFL. An all-effort guy that will thrive off of his huge, bulky presence on the field, Gerhart has shown flashes of brilliance. While he is pretty good on his feet, he doesn’t have the burst and quickness on his feet to take 20-25 carries game after game.

He’ll get shut down after a few starts due to his one-dimensional game – something that is going to provide a huge opportunity for someone like Storm Johnson.

We all saw what Johnson did at the college level, and there’s no reason to believe that his skills won’t transfer over to the NFL. He’s going to work hard in training camp – it’s just a matter of production at this point. Coaches will love what they see on the practice field…it’s up to Johnson to make big-time plays in his pre-season snaps.

He’ll have to battle with Jordan Todman, but I don’t see this being much of an issue. Todman is an average back at-best, proving that his spot on the depth chart is in serious jeopardy with the former UCF workhorse behind him.

If Gerhart does begin to look like a flop, will the Jaguars call upon Johnson earlier than expected?