Did Detroit find it’s Offensive Centerpiece w/ Kerryon Johnson?

RB Kerryon Johnson Detroit Lions

RB Kerryon Johnson Detroit Lions

Did Detroit find it’s Offensive Centerpiece w/ Kerryon Johnson?

RB Kerryon Johnson
Detroit Lions

  • Size: 6’0” / 213
  • Draft Selection: #43 (2018)
  • Depth Chart: 2 (competing w/ LBlount & AAbdullah for 1st/2nd down work)
  • ’18 Outlook: RB3/Flex
  • Athletic Profile: Solid (thx2 PlayerProfiler.com)
  • Instagram
  • NFL Comparison: Fred Taylor (poor man’s)

Kerryon Johnson 2017 Highlights

Outlook: Johnson is an underrated, smooth, patient runner who projects as a potential pro bowl performer at the NFL level. He will enter camp behind veteran pile mover LeGarrette Blount for the early down role, both will also face competition from former 2nd round pick Ameer Abdullah. The 3rd down role is manned by Theo Riddick, however, don’t sleep on Johnson’s ability in the passing game. If Johnson demonstrates talent, shows maturity in pass protection and remains injury free during camp, he has an opportunity to exceed 200+ touches in a top fifteen offense and be an RB3+ fantasy performer.

Opportunity: A sturdy, rugged north-south runner, he has more burst, wiggle, and versatility than Blount and with a 2nd round investment should be the preferred option heading into training camp. This is one of those picks where paying attention to reports from mini-camp and early training camp will be crucial. Positive reports about his pass protection, hands and assimilation are crucial; conversely, negative comments or minor injuries could foretell a slow or busted rookie year.

Long-term: Johnson is an underrated runner. I compared him to Fred Taylor because he has a similar build, demonstrated patience, north/south cutting ability and consistently found ways to find creases for positive yardage. His receiving ability isn’t as well developed as Taylor’s was entering the NFL however he uses his hands catching the ball, he just wasn’t asked to run anything other than screens & misdirection routes at Auburn. If you watch the video, you’ll see a player who has the talent to be the best from this class and maybe the first consistent bell cow in Detroit since HOF Barry Sanders. He needs to acclimate to the NFL and stay healthy, however he has the draft capital, team situation and opportunity to get his chance to be an impact NFL running back.