Roderick Johnson, OT, Florida State: 2017 NFL Draft Scouting Report

For Florida State offensive lineman Roderick Johnson, his NFL future is squarely placed on the notion that he shows enough potential at one of the most important positions in all of football.

Whenever there is a successful quarterback, 9 times out of 10 there is a wall at left tackle that keeps the passer upright. Scanning across the NFL this past 2015 season, the success of Arizona quarterback Carson Palmer, Cincinnati quarterback Andy Dalton, and Washington quarterback Kirk Cousins were in large part to great protection from left tackles Jason Veldheer, Andrew Whitworth, and Trent Williams, respectively.

In recent seasons, former Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston had the luxury of having the solid Cam Erving as his bodyguard, protecting his back side. As both transitioned to the professional ranks after the 2014 season, the growth of Roderick Johnson at the left tackle spot became even more vital to any type of success involving the Florida State offense. Before the 2016 season kicks off, let’s dissect the game of Johnson in a scouting report.

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Measurables

Height: 6’7

Weight: 310 pounds

Strengths: Initially, Johnson’s size is quite impressive and will probably fill out at 320 or so at the next level…..Johnson has solid athleticism when asked to maneuver…..Efficient in run blocking; able to engage and reach the second level of the defense…..Balanced blocker…..Shows ability to mirror pass rushers/defenders and shows patience….Solid hand-placement…..Displays ability to ride pass defenders around the pocket to maintain his blocks…..2015 All-ACC first team member and All-America second team recipient…..18 career starts, including every game of the 2015 season.

Weaknesses: Johnson needs to add strength in both his upper and lower frame…..Rarely drives blockers off the line which is a result of average strength…….Footwork needs improvement in both aspects of pass protection and run blocking…..Struggles considerably against speed rushers….Does not consistently display proper bend in the lower half; tends to play upright too often.

Next: Malik McDowell Scouting Report

Bottom line: Roderick Johnson is a solid option for the Seminoles at left tackle. However, Johnson has more room to improve than you would expect from a Florida State prospect with almost 20 career starts under his belt.

While he is getting first round grades, it is quite possible he will be a better fit at right tackle in the NFL. That of course will be the case if he does not show significant strides.

If he can improve his footwork and add the much needed strength, his chances of being a first rounder will definitely be in his favor.

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