2021 Raiders Draft Prospect Profile
Name: Patrick Johnson
Position: DE/LB
School: Tulane
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 255 pounds
Stats
Pass Rush-3
While this trait may not necessarily rate high, look at what Johnson works with. Based on the ability to convert speed to power, he flashes uncanny pop when driving the tackle back. Additionally, Johnson will veer wide to win with speed. Now, herein lies the issue. With two easily-countered moves, what can he do to enhance this trait? With his athleticism, nixing in a rip, swim or long arm does not seem too far-fetched.
Strength-3
Weighing between 250-255 pounds Johnson automatically surrenders 50-75 pounds to offensive linemen. Yet, through that disadvantage, he prospers with the aforementioned strength. The prospect drops his pad height, engages his lower half and walks the blocker into the backfield.
Speed-3
During his stay in New Orleans, the Green Wave utilized Johnson to not only rush, but cover backs. Regardless of the assignment, the former Tulane star plays with burst and explosion. From the snap, he runs like his hair is ablaze. Johnson arrives at the ball immediately and looking to stop the ball. Meanwhile, Johnson stays in trail or hip to hip downfield with the prospective target.
Agility-2
Looping did not seem initially beneficial to the prospect, since he plays with such twitch. This aspect falls under the evolving category. On twists, Johnson needs to commit quicker, allowing the speed to funnel through. Also, on blitzes, a slight shoulder dip will defeat chips.
Tackling-4
Violent tackle. Johnson drives through the target. Not to mention the pop and active hands that forced six fumbles. The player drills the ballcarrier, but not trying to headhunt. Applying the right amount of pressure to execute a strike, wrap, and drive, this prospect presents as someone with game-changing hitting.
Intangibles-2
Potential remains the ugly word that will cause coach firings and rebuilds. For a player like Johnson, it presents him the opportunity to realize his potential. For a player his size and speed, the sky remains the limit. Yet, the concern remains whether the light turns on and he begins to put the pieces together. In his favor, teams may not overdraft him.
Processing-2
Depending on the circumstance, the prospect can either thrill you with his eyes or disappoint with his feet. As a result, Johnson possesses a high ceiling when it boils down to development. Piecing together the play and developing that gut feeling should serve the player well.
Raiders Fit
With the hiring of Gus Bradley, the Raiders now possess a direction. Following that, not much else exists. Blundering the Ferrell pick, but succeeding on Crosby, the team needs depth. Arden Key should not return and no one knows what to make of Carl Nassib. Johnson gives the Raiders situational and athletic depth. If the Raiders draft Johnson in the middle rounds, he feels like a steal. Allowing him to develop with actual reps could draw more out of the Tulane product. Rush depth separates average teams from those that play well into January.
Points 19/28
