2019 Raiders Draft Prospect Profile
Name: Collin Johnson
Position: Wide Receiver
School: The University of Texas
Height: 6’6”
Weight: 220 pounds
Round Projection: 2-3
Hands
Due in part to his enormous wingspan, Johnson affords his quarterback the luxury of a tremendous catch radius. Regardless of angle,Johnson can grab it. With all due respect, he endured inconsistent throws. As a result, Johnson adjusted. From the over the should, anticipation catches to the 50/50 balls, he made the proverbial chicken salad. Speaking of the jump balls,Johnson felt at home with making contact and still snagging the ball.
Speed
Despite the long frame, Johnson runs fairly well. Unlike most big wideouts, Johnson carries long speed. While he won’t streak past corners, Johnson shows no problem with burst. With a long stride, Johnson easily gets even with with defensive backs. After the catch, Johnson can pull away over intermediate distances.
Route Running
When Johnson gets to the next level, he will need a position coach that will drill efficiency from the snap. Unfortunately, his leg length hinders shorter routes. With strict film study and field time, Johnson can learn to sit down quicker, driving the corner just far enough to create separation.
Route Tree
During his days in Austin, the Longhorns put Johnson to work with various patterns. Granted, people rightfully assume the post and go, but Johnson also attacked the meddile of the field. As a result, defenses could not sit on routes and guess. Plus, Johnson shows skill with the deep out and dig routes.
Agility
When you stand 6’6”, no one expects any lateral or vertical agility. However, Johnson rises and adjust on poorly thrown back shoulder fade sor jump balls. Height for a receiver cannot be taught. Under those circumstances, he will turn the 50/50 into a 75/25 ball. Plus, in open space, Johnson shows the skill of a stutter stop, allowing defenders to drift away.
Raiders Fit
If you know Jon Gruden’s preferences, you already know the kind of receiver he covets. He prefers size to quick. Plus, you can envision Johnson serving as a number two receiver for the Raiders. With his size, you’d give Derek Carr an immense redzone target. In addition, you could find Johnson down the middle of the field. With Vegas on the horizon, Gruden needs reshape the Raiders in his image. Johnson gives him a big-bodied wideout that presents matchup nightmares.
