Inside the Notebook: NFL Draft Quick Hits on RB Duke Johnson
By Joe Wedra
Former Miami Hurricanes RB Duke Johnson could arguably be the toughest back to break down in this year’s 2015 NFL Draft class due to his expanded tools and inconsistent film.
Some of the staff of NFL Mocks sat down last night to break down Johnson’s game against Georgia Tech in 2014, and a few things were solidified in our minds as far as Johnson’s overall body of work.
What Looked Good
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- First, the productive back shows off a cutting ability that can’t be denied. He can change direction with the best of them and is able to “break ankles”, as the members of the scouting world love to put it.
- You can’t deny Johnson’s ability to get down the field and beat defenders. He isn’t a blazing speed guy like 2014’s Dri Archer, but the Miami back has jets to effectively
- Vision is a plus here. On many plays (including the GT tape) Johnson uses his eyes to project what’s going to happen next. You have to like that for a guy heading into the NFL. With the running game being so much about anticipation, teams want backs that can see the entire field as they’re running.
- Strength won’t be a concern. We all noted that while he doesn’t have major size, he’s willing to take hits.
Concerns to Watch
I have to say that the four of us watching Johnson’s tape were fairly pleased with what we saw.
If there’s anything to watch in his overall game, it’ll be his role in the passing game. He’s done a very good job at catching the football out of the backfield, but his pass protection has been a major question mark while watching all of his film.
Although it doesn’t appear to be a major concern moving forward, he did break his ankle in 2014.
2015 NFL Scouting Combine
Keep an eye on Johnson in the 40-yard dash. Most of the time, we’ll put too much emphasis on this drill, but it will be interesting to see what he runs. Anything below 4.53 should work in his favor.