NFL Draft Prospects: Chris Johnson

January 26, 2008 by Tjford

Name: Chris Johnson
Position: Runningback
School: East Carolina
Year: Senior
Career stats: 2982 rush yds 4.78 ypc 32 rush TD 125 rec 1296 rec yds 10 rec TD (2007: 36 KO returns 1009 ret yds 1 TD)
Ht: 5-11
Wt: 195
40: 4.2 (est)
Bench: N/A
Expected draft position: RB 4-8 2nd-4th round
Youtube Linkage

Strengths: Lightning quick, has run a 4.2 forty and will easily be the fastest RB at the combine if he can come close to that mark. Possesses great versatility, can return kicks well, is comfortable splitting out or catching passes out of the backfield as well as run the ball between the tackles.

Concerns: Needs to bulk up to be an every down back in the NFL, at 195 lbs, he will likely not be able to withstand 20+ touches a game.

Comments: His Hawaii bowl performance will certainly give his stock a shot in the arm. A bowl record 408 all purpose yards (223 rush 32 rec 153 ret) against Boise State will make scouts take notice. A solid effort at the combine will further cement this kid as a first day pick. He will likely be drafted for his kickoff return ability, an aftershock of the Devin Hester effect but I think he will be able to succeed if given a role similar to Brian Westbrook in Philadelphia. Versatility is Johnson’s 2nd greatest asset, the team that drafts him would be wise to know this. Obviously, being able to run a 4.2 forty is his best. After all, you can’t coach speed.

tag: NFL, Draft, Football, Prospect, Profile, East Carolina, Chris Johnson

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