2016 NFL Draft: 5 bold predictions
By Jon Dove
Dec 27, 2014; Bronx, NY, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions defensive tackle Austin Johnson (99) waves his arms for crowd noise against the Boston College Eagles during the 2014 Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium. Penn State won 31-30 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Austin Johnson will be the 1st Penn State player selected
Penn State’s season isn’t off to a great start but several players remain highly thought of in the draft community. Quarterback Christian Hackenberg gets most of the attention thanks to his physical tools and potential.
However, Hackenberg has yet to put it all together and has seen his draft stock take a major hit. He’s struggling with is accuracy and ability to handle pressure. At this point nothing is off the table including Hackenberg sliding to the later rounds or him returning for another year at Penn State.
Even if he remains in the draft, defensive tackle Austin Johnson will be the first Penn State prospect drafted in the 2016 draft. Johnson doesn’t get nearly enough credit for his contributions to Penn State’s strong defensive play.
He’s a thick and powerful defensive tackle who excels at stuffing the run. Johnson plays with great balance, leverage and effort. His hand usage and upper body strength allows him to not only hold at the point but also disengage and make plays away from his frame.
Johnson isn’t much of a pass-rush threat but he features surprising quickness that offers the potential for improvement in this area. This absolutely is a 1st round prospect with the ability to step in and make an instant impact in the NFL.
Next: Ezekiel Elliott an Elite Prospect