Theo Johnson 2023 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Background: 

• Canadian recruit who was ranked No. 1 out of the country in his recruiting class
• Brother, Dominic, is a two-sport athlete at the University of Buffalo

System: 

• Scheme tendencies: Spread offense with RPO and QB-run elements
• 2022 projected role: Featured wide receiver

Pros: Man, what a dynamic athlete Theo Johnson is. There’s such a blatant level of receiving upside here just in watching him move in space and seeing the physical traits at play—his length, flexibility, burst, and stride length are all uncoachable elements that you quickly identify. A former WR/TE hybrid in college, Johnson has stacked weight on his frame and did so quite gracefully; he should have little issue with playing at the tight end size full-time. The ball skills, going back to his recruiting profile, are through the roof and I fully expect this to be a featured part of the Penn State passing game in 2021. Johnson pushed his way for more playing time last season and with bigger opportunities, we should get to see more of the rare blend of size, mobility, and explosiveness he brings to the table. 

Cons: This projection is largely a shot in the dark. Theo Johnson is largely still an unproven player entering into 2022 with bright flashes against teams like Auburn, Villanova, and Indiana (one reception of at least 20+ yards in each game) but no other receptions to show for those games. The passing volume got turned up later in the season but did not afford the same explosive returns. I’m still finding my grasp on Johnson’s comfortability playing in-line, but he has shown an appetite for contact and a willingness to help spring teammates for big gains. I’m willing and able to bet big on the physical tools here but until we see a fuller body of work, this is forecasting traits that seem too good to not materialize.

Theo Johnson NFL Draft Scouting Report by Kyle Crabbs