NFL Draft Profile: DJ Johnson, EDGE, Oregon Ducks
In this story:
DJ Johnson
Oregon Ducks
#2
Pos: EDGE
Ht: 6041
Wt: 260
Hand: 0900
Arm: 3328
Wing: 8018
40: 4.49
DOB: 10/21/1998
Hometown: Sacramento, CA
High School: Luther Burbank
Eligibility: 2023
One-Liner:
A suitable run defender with proper NFL size.
Evaluation:
Firm build with adequate length. Aligns both to the strong and weak side as standup edge. He mainly plays in a 2pt stance outside of the tackle but can reduce down and play as a 4i or head up on the tackle. Real edge setter that can play the run. The team is not afraid to have him cover the flat. Shows enough fluidity and movement skills to do so. A lot to work through as a pass rusher. Heavy-handed and a good bull rusher but lacks the traits or technique to win consistently. Adequate but not explosive get-off that keeps tackles setting at normal angles. Doesn’t present the appropriate ankle flexion to flatten his rush path. Johnson will need time to develop a pass rush plan, but between his size and ability to surf the run or play the flat, he can find some usage as a later-round pickup.
Grade:
5th Round
Background:
DJ Johnson established himself as one of the most versatile players in the country in his fourth season at Oregon. In 2021, Johnson contributed in all three phases while playing in 11 of 14 games playing 268 total snaps, with 152 on defense as an outside linebacker, 98 on offense as a tight end, and 18 on special teams. He finished with 11 total tackles (eight solo), 2.0 tackles for loss and a sack on defense, and he added one catch for 11 yards on offense. In 2020, he caught 10 passes for 113 yards and three touchdowns in the shortened season. In high school, he was a consensus four-star and top 115 prospect in the class by ESPN, Rivals and 247Sports.
