2017 NFL Draft: Pittsburgh Dorian Johnson Scouting Report

Pittsburgh’s Dorian Johnson is a guard prospect looking to rise up draft boards prior to the 2017 NFL Draft.

Dorian Johnson is a high-energy player who plays with a nasty streak. He consistently plays to the whistle fighting to help his team gain extra yardage. It’s this type of effort that helps set the tone for Pittsburgh’s run-heavy offense.

Johnson is a solid athlete for the position showing the ability to climb to the second level and also pull to the sideline. He’s quick enough out of his stance to keep defenders from crossing his face or shooting the gap.

His ability to generate a push off the line of scrimmage is tied to being able to roll his hips. Johnson can deliver a strong initial jolt when he rolls his hips, but the issue is that he doesn’t do this with consistency. This is a cause for concern because he lacks some of the other traits needed to be an effective run blocker.

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Johnson is a little on the lighter side when compared to other players at the position. He also lacks heavy hands which keeps him from Velcroing to the defender. Johnson also doesn’t have great reach which keeps him from gaining inside hands.

His less than ideal bulk and arm length also hurts his ability to anchor in pass protection. Too often, he’s pushed back into the pocket and in the face of the quarterback. It is important to note that Johnson is a fighter who works to regain his footing after that initial contact.

Something that could improve his anchor and overall balance is cleaning up his footwork. Johnson gets happy feet in that he’s constantly taking little steps rather than gaining a strong base. This could be one of the reasons he struggles to hold at the point of attack.

Overall, Johnson’s athleticism and nasty style of play gives him a chance to improve his draft stock. There’s room for him to improve with more coaching and better technique.

Current Draft Status: 3^rd Round

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