2016 NFL Mock Draft: Week 11 Update
By Jon Dove
Oct 31, 2015; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin greets defensive tackle Austin Johnson (99) prior to the game against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Beaver Stadium. Penn State won 39-0. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
23. New York Giants- Austin Johnson, DT, Penn State
The New York Giants defense has been a major problem this year and threatens to keep them out of the playoffs. Their problems are on every level of the defense which means they could go a number of different directions with this pick.
Penn State’s Austin Johnson makes sense because of his ability to stuff the run. He’s big-bodied defensive tackle who occupies blockers, holds at the point of attack and makes plays away from his frame.
Johnson isn’t much of a pass rusher, but he flashes potential thanks to his strength and surprising quickness.He’s an underrated player who is overshadowed by more hyped teammates like Anthony Zettel and Carl Nassib.
However, Johnson is the most complete player on Penn State’s defensive line and thus has the bright future in the NFL.
A pass rusher like Clemson’s Shaq Lawson would also make sense in this spot. Jason Pierre-Paul has returned to action but his long-term future is still a question mark. Lawson is a strong edge rusher who also can play the run.
Ideally, Lawson would fit in opposite Pierre-Paul but he also has the potential to fill in as a long-term replacement should Pierre-Paul fail to get back to full strength.
Next: No. 24 Green Bay