Da'Shawn Hand Links from before the Draft

DT Da'Shawn Hand:

Scouting Reports:

Alabama Profile:  http://rolltide.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=3907

NFL:  http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/dashawn-hand?id=2560096

Draftwire:   http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/28/dashawn-hand-nfl-draft-profile/

NFL Draft Scout:  http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=130689&draftyear=2018&genpos=DE

Draft Analyst:  http://draftanalyst.com/dashawn-hand

Walterfootball:  http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2018dhand.php

CBS:  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/player-blurb-dashawn-hand-de-alabama/

Overall Rankings (Average Ranking is 107):

Draft Tek (49.  Da'Shawn Hand):   https://www.drafttek.com/m/Top-100-NFL-Draft-Prospects-2018.asp

Rob Rang (66. Da'Shawn Hand):  https://www.themaven.net/nfldraftscout/news/rob-rang-s-final-top-100-big-board-99RsZLoYnE2-8K7uQfAB-A/?full=1

RW Thor (86. Da'Shawn Hand):  http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/79406/325/top-400-nfl-draft-big-board

Draftcountdown (87. Da'Shawn Hand):  http://www.draftcountdown.com/nfl-draft-ranking/2018-top-300-overall/

ESPN (90.  Da'Shawn Hand: His production and effort haven't always mirrored his physical gifts. Hand missed time in 2017 with an MCL sprain. He also had a DUI arrest last summer in which he was found asleep at the wheel of a parked car that was running with its headlights on.):  http://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2018/story/_/id/23201964/2018-nfl-draft-jeff-legwold-ranking-top-100-prospects-picks

NFL Gil Brandt (91.  Da'ShawnHand):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000926641/article/hot-150-gil-brandts-top-prospects-for-2018-nfl-draft-51100

NFL Draftscout (99. Da'Shawn Hand):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000926641/article/hot-150-gil-brandts-top-prospects-for-2018-nfl-draft-51100

CBS (193. Da'Shawn Hand):   https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/

PFF (200. Da'Shawn Hand):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-pff-big-board-top-250-players-for-the-2018-nfl-draft

Positional Rankings (Average DE Ranking is 13):

Draft Tek (DL 5-Tech - 1. Da'Shawn Hand):  https://www.drafttek.com/2018-NFL-Draft-Prospect-Rankings/Top-College-Defensive-Tackles5-2018-Draft.asp

Draft Analyst (DE - 5. Da'Shawn Hand):  http://draftanalyst.com/ranking?position=DE&year=

Walterfootball (DE - 6. Da'Shawn Hand:  4/25/18: Hand totaled 27 tackles and three sacks in 2017. At the Senior Bowl, Hand was playing well before an injury knocked him out early. He impressed teams at the Senior Bowl with his athleticism, movement skills, strength, and ability to set the edge. He won't be a quarterback sacker in the NFL, but he could be a good run defender.  In talking to team sources, Hand is a love/hate prospect. Some sources think he is one of the best five-techniques in the 2018 NFL Draft. Other area scouts say that Hand is just a guy and have graded him as a late-rounder. Despite the discrepancy, evaluators feel Hand is likely to be a second-day pick who could go in Round 2.  9/1/17: Hand has never lived up to the hype after being the No. 1 recruit in the nation coming out of high school. He was more of a rotational player for Alabama in 2016, but he was playing better late in the season. Hand totaled 21 tackles and two sacks in 2016. With Jonathan Allen, Tim Williams, Dalvin Tomlinson and Ryan Anderson all moving on to the NFL, Hand should take on a bigger role as a senior. As a sophomore in 2015, he totaled 16 tackles with three sacks and 6.5 tackles for a loss.):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2018DE.php

Draft Scout (DE - 9. Da'Shawn Hand):  http://nfldraftscout.com/position-rankings/

Draft Countdown (DE - 9. Da'Shawn Hand):  http://www.draftcountdown.com/nfl-draft-ranking/2018-defensive-end-rankings/

PFF (DT - 20. Da'Shawn Hand:  A former top recruit, Hand never truly lived up to the hype on the field, never topping a 77.3 overall grade. He’s solid against the run, but his 71.2 pass-rush grade in 2016 represents a career high):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-ranking-the-di-prospects-for-the-2018-nfl-draft

CBS (DE - 21. Da'Shawn Hand):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/defensive-ends/

Articles:

TWENTYMAN: 10 prospects who could interest Lions on Day 3 (Da’Shawn Hand, DE, Alabama:  Hand started nine of the 11 games he played in 2017, missing time with a minor knee injury. He’s a versatile defender who can bump inside on passing downs. He had 27 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and three sacks this past season.) (4-28-18):  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/TWENTYMAN-10-prospects-who-could-interest-Lions-on-Day-3/46e532d0-146e-4943-9ea2-ae5e85c5132f

NFL draft: Shaquem Griffin, Maurice Hurst lead list of names to watch for on Day 3 (Alabama DE Da’Shawn Hand:  Hand arrived at Alabama as a heralded recruit, one of the best prospects in the nation. Once there, he struggled to consistently crack a constantly loaded starting lineup that churns out NFL talent. A 6-4, 300-pounder, he has the size and athleticism to compete in the NFL and showed that ability in flashes in college. A DUI arrest in 2017 isn’t helping his cause.) (4-28-18):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-shaquem-griffin-maurice-hurst-lead-list-names-watch-day-3-050514230.html

NFL Draft: Greg Gabriel's best remaining players on defense entering Rounds 4-7 (Da’Shawn Hand – Alabama:  Another versatile player. Has Day 2 traits but never quite played up to expectations while at Alabama.) (4-28-18):  http://www.profootballweekly.com/lists/2018/04/28/26850160/index.xml?page=1

An anonymous scout told Bob McGinn Football that Alabama DL Da'Shawn Hand is an "underachiever." (Another scout expanded on this idea saying "He doesn’t play as well as he worked out. He’s a prototypical body for a 5-technique. He’s not going to be great rushing over a guard because he doesn’t have a lot of twitch or body quickness. He’s going to have to win with power." He cited the Pittsburgh Steelers as a good fit for him due to their 3-4 scheme but added if "you try to make him a pass rusher, you’re doing him a disservice." Hand will likely be a late Day 2 selection.):  http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/playerbreakingnews.asp?sport=CFB&id=132669&line=82600&spln=1

Woodbridge graduate Da'Shawn Hand still turning heads as NFL beckons (4-25-18):   http://www.insidenova.com/sports/prince_william/woodbridge-graduate-da-shawn-hand-still-turning-heads-as-nfl/article_f88a8ee0-43da-11e8-92e9-0f38d8d942d0.html

NFL draft 2018 defensive line rankings: Washington's Vita Vea, a 347-pound ex-RB, tops list (4-19-18):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2018/04/19/nfl-draft-2018-defensive-line-rankings-washingtons-vita-vea-daron-payne-project-first-round-run-stuf/396551002/

NFL Draft: Washington's Vea would be huge addition to Chicago Bears DL (Day Three: Da’Shawn Hand’s Alabama teammate, Payne, has gotten much more attention. But, if Hand slips into the third day, he could be a steal. Hand has scheme diversity – he would be a 5-technique in the Bears’ base -- and he ran a sizzling 4.83 40 at the combine, an excellent time for a 6-foot-4, 297-pounder. He was extremely inconsistent at Alabama but flashed the potential to be great.) (4-18-18):  http://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/04/18/nfl-draft-washingtons-vea-would-be-huge-addition-to-chicago-bears-dl/aykhi8u/

Kiper, McShay answer 25 questions on the 2018 NFL draft (Most overrated - Da'Shawn Hand, Alabama: Hand was a second-team All-SEC pick as a senior, but he didn't make as many plays as scouts would like to see from a top-tier talent. If he wants to become a difference maker in the NFL, he'll need to explode off the snap and break down more quickly to make tackles. If he's picked in the mid-third or fourth round, Hand could be a solid rotational contributor as an end on a three-man line. Hand would need to pick up his playmaking skills to justify an earlier selection.) (4-17-18):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000926830/article/2018-nfl-draft-freakish-vita-vea-atop-shallow-interior-dl-class

2018 Draft Preview: Defensive Tackle (Round 2 - Da’Shawn Hand (Full, 3T/5T, Alabama) was a 5T in Alabama’s base 34 scheme. While he doesn’t have the upside as a pass rusher like Green, he is a more balanced player with unique strength and length. Like Payne, he projects as a better NFL than college player and has a connection to Lions’ defensive line coach Bo Davis. If he slides to the third round he could be the pick at 82.) (4-17-18):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/17/2018-draft-preview-defensive-tackle/

30 in 30: Da'Shawn Hand (4-14-18):  http://www.wivb.com/sports/buffalo-bills/30-in-30-dashawn-hand/1122132376

Pro Day March 7: Alabama, Colorado & Colorado State (Da'Shawn Hand sat on his combine numbers but looked terrific in drills today. The senior lined up at defensive end in Alabama’s three-man front, but most teams are projecting him as a three-technique tackle. Nick Saban has been singing Hand’s praises to NFL coaches, telling them Hand was willing to put the team over himself the past two years. I’m told the New Orleans Saints are very high on Hand, who will be a top-50 pick in April.) (3-8-18):  http://draftanalyst.com/pro-day-march-7-alabama-colorado-colorado-state

Chicago Bears positional analysis: Defensive Line (Payne’s teammate, Da’Shawn Hand, is also scheme diverse but lacks some bulk and was never a consistent performer at Alabama. He has the potential to be great, but could be a boom-or-bust player and because of that will be pushed into the second day or later.) (2-20-18):  http://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/02/19/chicago-bears-positional-analysis-defensive-line/abirshb/

2018 Combine Preview: Defensive end (DT Da'Shawn Hand - Best trait: Strength. He’s a grown man with an NFL-ready body. He big and versatile enough to play both outside and inside in a variety of schemes.  Concern: Production doesn’t necessarily match the physical traits. He didn’t dominate as much as he probably should have based on his physical traits. He never recorded more than three sacks in a season. Why?  Skinny: He’s a player teams will likely do a lot of homework on. He’s physically gifted, but didn’t produce like it.) (2-15-18):  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/2018-Combine-Preview-Defensive-end/dc6505e7-fc0f-4f2a-ae89-21925c65d7b6

2018 NFL Draft Stock - Post-Senior Bowl (2018 NFL Draft Stock Up - Da'Shawn Hand, DE, Alabama: There are a lot of divided opinions on Hand in the scouting community. During the fall, one area scout told me that they were grading Hand well into the third day of the 2018 NFL Draft. They thought he was just a guy and not a special player in any regard. In speaking to sources from a few other teams last week, they had a higher opinion of Hand, and one area scout felt that Hand was among the top five-technique defensive ends in this draft class. A director of college scouting told me that Hand was awesome in his Senior Bowl interview. He has obviously been coached well and has developed technique. That is similar to former teammate Dalvin Tomlinson, who wowed at the team interviews and displayed excellent technique to help him rise to the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft. The 6-foot-3, 282-pound Hand has a good build with athleticism. The Texans' coaches liked what they saw from Hand at the Senior Bowl, with defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel singling out Hand as a player who impressed him. Some sources think Hand could go in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft.) (2-6-18):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock_22.php

Senior Bowl notebook: Top 15 performers (8. Da’Shawn Hand, DL, Alabama:  It wasn’t the most consistent week of practices for Hand, but his flashes were impressive enough to put him this high on the list. He was one of the few defensive linemen to get the best of Georgia’s Isaiah Wynn during one-on-one drills, displaying active hands and flexible hips. At 6-foot-4 and 282 pounds, some teams see a tweener, but as one scout put it to me “he can hog molly blockers inside or outside.”) (1-26-18):  http://draftscout.tsxfiles.com/2018/01/26/senior-bowl-notebook-top-15-performers/

UTSA's Marcus Davenport could give Lions the pass-rush help they need and seven other DLine Prospects (Da'Shawn Hand, DE, Alabama (South No. 9): If the name sounds familiar, it should. The 6-foot-4, 288-pounder was a highly sought-after recruit in high school who had high interest in Michigan before going to play for Nick Saban. He had 27 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and three sacks last season. Physically, it’s all there. If he has a big week, he could end up garnering more attention. He’s not a first-day pick at this point and might not be a second-day one, but the Lions need talent on their front seven and Hand has plenty of it.) (1-26-18):  http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/33065/marcus-davenport-could-be-the-pass-rush-help-the-lions-need-at-senior-bowl

Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Analysis: Hand was tremendous during Senior Bowl practices from start to finish. He was explosive and quick and beat opponents with power as well as agility. He definitely helped his draft stock, and it would not be a surprise if he slides into the late part of Round 1.) (1-26-18): draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page

Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Thurs: Very impressed with Hand's natural skills: explosion, quickness, movement skills, agility, balance and closing burst. Beat defenders multiple times on drills and was often found in the offensive backfield.) (1-25-18):  http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page

Senior Bowl notebook: Davenport, Penny struggling for South (Alabama’s Da’Shawn Hand (6-4, 282) and Texas’ Poona Ford (just under 6-0, 306 pounds) may be polar opposites in terms of prototypical frames, but the raw power they generate as bull rushers helped each stand out during one-on-one drills and scrimmages.) (1-24-18):  http://draftscout.tsxfiles.com/2018/01/24/senior-bowl-notebook-davenport-penny-struggling-for-south/

Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Wed: Another good day for Hand. He is so quick and explosive and gets a lot of momentum going up the field, which makes him tough to stop. I like the way he uses his hands, stays on his feet and powers forward. He's really helping himself here.) (1-24-18):  http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page

Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Tues: Displayed violent hand punch in bag drills. Very explosive in his lower body with good power, and on a number of occasions he drove Isaiah Wynn back. Must develop more moves with his hands, as he struggles getting off blocks once engaged at the point.) (1-23-18):  http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page

 2018 Reese's Senior Bowl Day 1 recap (Alabama defensive tackle Da’Shawn Hand’s strength and ability to control blockers were evident throughout Tuesday’s practice, and he was the top-performer for the South’s defensive line.) (1-23-18):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-reeses-senior-bowl-day-1-recap

Senior Bowl 2018: Observations from the first two practices in Mobile, Alabama (Da'Shawn Hand won a few battles against Georgia offensive lineman Isaiah Wynn, but the latter had the strongest rep of the one-on-one drill in the trenches, as he almost sent Hand into their teammates watching the drill.) (1-23-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-2018-observations-from-the-first-two-practices-in-mobile-alabama/

Twentyman: Senior Bowl participants to watch (Da’Shawn Hand, Alabama, 6-4, 288: Missed three games due to injury last season and had 27 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and 3.0 sacks. He recorded one tackle and defended a pass in the National Championship game earlier this month.) (1-23-18):  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/TWENTYMAN-Senior-Bowl-participants-to-watch/50e85598-37f5-4670-af4c-5e76e25bbeb9

2018 Senior Bowl: Day One (That might also mean the DE designation won’t play a true outside technique, and we saw that with Da’Shawn Hand and Marcus Davenport today, lining up as a 4i on a few occasions. Both have played in similar spots, but I know many are anxious to see Davenport as a true edge player. Just something to monitor, not jumping to any conclusions.) (1-23-18):  http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77491/351/2018-senior-bowl-day-one

Mayfield, Allen, and the Senior Bowl Prospects to Watch (Da’Shawn Hand, DL, Alabama: Hand was a mega-recruit coming out of high school, had to wait his turn behind a bevy of future NFL d-linemen, then got hurt has a senior. He still has the measureables that made him a coveted commodity four years ago, but has a reputation as a guy those at Bama made excuses for. This week, he gets his shot at putting that narrative to rest.) (1-23-18): www.si.com/nfl/2018/01/23/senior-bowl-prospects-baker-mayfield-josh-allen-marcus-davenport

Video - Hand on 'job interview': As long as I 'do what I do, I got no worries' (1-23-17):  http://www.nfl.com/goto?id=0ap3000000909777&icampaign=%22search-video-da%27shawn+hand%22

Biggest storylines of Senior Bowl, from Baker Mayfield to Shaquem Griffin (Rivals' top player of 2014 hits Senior Bowl - In 2014, the Rivals recruiting service debated between two top defensive line prospects to earn the top spot in their national rankings. Texas A&M’s Myles Garrett ended up No. 2 on those rankings. Alabama’s Da’Shawn Hand, now a Senior Bowl invite, was No. 1.  Barring a historic rise in draft grades, Hand won’t match Garrett's No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 draft — but he will lead a talented contingent of seven Alabama players at the Senior Bowl. Hand, who offers 5-technique value to NFL teams and ample experience in an Alabama defense, can earn an excellent draft position.) (1-22-18):http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/senior-bowl-biggest-storylines-baker-mayfield-josh-allen-shaquem-griffin-dashawn-hand/1sqxterz967xv1g3n6ejh8bol8

Senior Bowl primer: NFL draft prospects to watch this week in Mobile (Da'Shawn Hand, DL, Alabama:  Hand, one of four Alabama players in the Senior Bowl, has immense upside that he's yet to fully unlock. A former  five-star recruit, he's a behemoth (6-4, 273) whose explosion and versatility will have a chance to pop off the practice field. But can Hand spend more time in the backfield and turn into a riser, unlike some Alabama front-seven defenders whose stock has gone south in recent springs?) (1-22-18):  http://www.profootballweekly.com/lists/2018/01/19/2a771b39291247f38d9c9b6e83533218/index.xml?page=2

2018 Senior Bowl preview: Defensive Line (Da'Shawn Hand:  It’s easy to get lost in the shuffle on the Crimson Tide’s vaunted defense, and Hand’s draft stock has indeed seemed to slide to the back burner throughout the 2017 season. A stout run defender, Hand’s best fit at the next level will likely be as a 5-technique, but his frame and skill set should allow him to excel in any scheme. That versatility should be on full display this week, with Hand hoping to show NFL decision-makers he can make plays from anywhere on the defensive line.) (1-22-18):  http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/22/2018-senior-bowl-preview-defensive-line/2/

Senior Bowl Preview -- The Defense (The South squad has three defensive ends on its roster, and all three are fascinating for different reasons.  Alabama’s Da’Shawn Hand is the highest-rated of the trio with a second-round grade, and he’s a great athlete who can bend the edge and defend the run at 6-foot-4, 295 pounds. His career has been marred by inconsistency, but a steady week of practice could go a long way towards convincing NFL teams his upside is worth an early look.)  (1-21-18):   http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-preview-defense-0

NFL Matchups in The Title Game (Hand is a guy who flashes brilliance but also shows a lot of inconsistency in his game. He offers terrific size and speed numbers (6-foot-4, 295 pounds, under 5.0s in the 40) and can bend the edge then rush the passer or stop the run. Hand offers potential as a two-gap end in a three-man front and will receive consideration inside at tackle.) (1-8-17):  http://draftanalyst.com/nfl-matchups-title-game

Top 17 future NFL stars to watch in national championship game (13. Da'Shawn Hand, DE, Alabama:  Things got out of Hand at times between the Tide's stout defensive end and Clemson left tackle Mitch Hyatt in the Sugar Bowl. Even when Hyatt used his athleticism to stay in front initially, it was fairly easy for Hand to disengage and break away for a secondary rush or to make a tackle. He had five stops on the night, including a sack. Jake Fromm must unload the ball quickly if he wants to avoid big hits from Hand and the rest of the Tide's rushers.) (1-4-17):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000902788/article/top-17-future-nfl-stars-to-watch-in-national-championship-game

Kiper, McShay answer 25 questions on the 2018 NFL draft (18. Which prospect has hurt his stock the most this season?  Kiper: I really thought Alabama defensive lineman Da'Shawn Hand, a former five-star recruit who had been a rotation player, could have a breakout season in his first season as a full-time starter. But he hasn't been consistent, and he has only 2.5 tackles for loss. At 6-foot-4 and 285 pounds, he's a tweener -- not big enough to be a tackle but not explosive enough to play end at the next level. I'd also include Texas A&M receiver Christian Kirk, whom I had thought heading into the season could be a first-round pick. Now I think he's a Day 2 guy who will likely primarily be a slot wideout.) (12-5-17):  http://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2018/story/_/id/21665021/2018-nfl-draft-primer-mel-kiper-todd-mcshay-answer-25-questions-prospects-rankings-mock-draft

Da'Shawn Hand, Josh Jacobs progressing with injury rehab (10-30-17):  http://www.al.com/alabamafootball/index.ssf/2017/10/dashawn_hand_josh_jacobs_progr.html

How much time will Da'Shawn Hand miss with knee injury? (10-3-17):  http://www.al.com/alabamafootball/index.ssf/2017/10/how_much_time_will_dashawn_han.html

Five senior prospects who will be NFL starters in Week 1 2018 (Micah Kiser, LB, Virginia:  All Kiser does is make tackles. He made 251 stops in the previous two seasons, including 14 sacks. Kiser recorded 7 tackles, including a sack, in UVa's season-opening win over William & Mary. He's thick, strong, active and instinctive. Kiser has also been a factor in pass coverage, breaking up seven throws in 2016. In short, he'll be starting for a 3-4 team immediately upon his arrival in the NFL.) (9-7-17):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000839659/article/five-senior-prospects-who-will-be-nfl-starters-in-week-1-2018

Scouting the SEC: Alabama (Conversely I believe Da'Shawn Hand, graded as a middle-round pick by scouts, is underrated and has a great upside.  Though Hand does not possess the size or power of his teammate, he’s decidedly more athletic and a much better pass rusher. Hand fires off the snap, plays with excellent pad level and gets a lot of momentum going up the field. He must improve his playing strength and, based on recent news, he must also mature as a person.) (8-11-17):  http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-sec-alabama

Path clear for Da'Shawn Hand to avoid suspension (8-3-17):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000825381/article/path-clear-for-dashawn-hand-to-avoid-suspension

Alabama's Da'Shawn Hand arrested on suspicion of DUI (7-29-17):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000823168/article/alabamas-dashawn-hand-arrested-on-suspicion-of-dui

2018 Prospect Preview: Da'Shawn Hand proved dominant rushing the QB in 2016 (7-27-17):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-prospect-preview-dashawn-hand-proved-dominant-rushing-the-qb-in-2016

2018 NFL draft early watch list: Interior defensive linemen (DT Da'Shawn Hand:  Another year, another Crimson Tide defensive front loaded with NFL talent. Listed at 6-4, 280 pounds, Hand has the frame and skill set to play multiple spots in any scheme. His impact went far beyond what his 2016 stats might suggest (3.5 tackles for loss, two sacks), and 2017 should be a breakout campaign for the promising senior who will now be the elder statesman of the unit. Expectations will be high, just as they always are for defenders coming out of Tuscaloosa, but Hand should be up to the challenge.) (7-22-17):  http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/07/22/2018-nfl-draft-early-watch-list-interior-defensive-linemen/5/

Grades and Analysis for DB Tracy Walker

Grades:

SI (Grade - B:  Tavon Wilson, Glover Quin and Miles Killebrew all hit free agency in 2020. Walker can develop behind them for now, with the understanding that he could contribute in select packages early on. Matt Patricia did a lot with safety-heavy groupings in New England. You get more schematic flexibility that way.  Scouting Report: He’s undersized, but Walker is a fluid mover who can match up with tight ends and some slot receivers. He played close to the line of scrimmage in college and fills hard against the run, though play strength will be an issue at the NFL level. He’ll have to prove he can adjust to a free-safety role at the next level, otherwise he’s looking at a sub-package role.):  https://www.si.com/draft/nfl/2018/draft-tracker?round=3

CBS (Grade - B:  Matt Patricia likes back-end players with versatility and this kid has it. That's a good pick.  Draft Prospect Outlook:  Multi-dimensional safety with plus range. Possesses the suddenness, speed, and strength to be a consistent tackler against the run. Flashes cornerback-like mirroring skills. High motor to chase from the backside. Requisite ball skills. Underrated prospect primed to outplay his draft position.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/draft-tracker/

PFW (82. Lions — Louisiana-Lafayette S Tracy Walker — Grade: C Good size, small hands but some playmaking skill. Walker has started since early in his career in college but hasn’t developed quite the way scouts had hoped. In fact, a few teams talked about using him as a corner with his size — especially his long arms. His instincts for safety might just be average, but his athleticism is solid. —EE):  http://www.profootballweekly.com/lists/2018/04/27/09173036/index.xml?page=49

Draft grades: B from Birkett, C+ from Monarrez (Birkett - Walker:  The Lions were thrilled to get Walker, and that means something. They needed long-term help at the safety position and Walker can contribute on special teams now while he develops. I haven’t seen Walker play, so I can’t speak to his ability. But I thought the Lions’ bigger need was on the defensive line (and had they addressed it here, they might have saved themselves a pick next year). There’s no telling if Walker would have been there had the Lions flopped their third- and fourth-round selections, but players who went after Walker included Ronnie Harrison, Harrison Phillips and Maurice Hurst. C-plus):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-grades/561721002/

Lions get C-plus for passing on DL, taking Walker:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/27/detroit-lionis-tracy-walker/560603002/

Draftwire (82. Detroit Lions | Tracy Walker | DB | LA Lafayette | D): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/2018-nfl-draft-grading-every-pick-from-day-2/2/

Walterfootball (Detroit Lions: Tracy Walker, S, Louisiana-Lafayete THE GHOST OF MILLEN STRIKES AGAIN Grade - Ladies and gentlemen, our first Millen pick of the second day of the draft! Tracy Walker is a late-round prospect with good instincts, but he seems more like a special-teams player. The Lions almost certainly could have gotten Walker in the fourth or even fifth rounds.):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades3.php

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NFL Chad Reuter (Day 1 Grade - A, Day 2 Grade - C, Overall Grade - B+:  The skinny: Detroit got stronger in the middle by picking Ragnow, who could play guard for now, or move to center if needed. Either way, he'll move the line of scrimmage. Matthew Stafford feels better already. The Lions were so interested in Johnson that they gave up a fourth-round pick to move up eight spots. That's marginal value, though I expect Johnson will be a good back. Walker was picked two rounds earlier than expected, but he has the skills to become a starter in the league.):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000929730/article/2018-nfl-draft-quicksnap-grades-for-every-team-through-day-2

Analysis:

Draft wire (82. Detroit Lions | Tracy Walker | DB | LA Lafayette:  The Lions grab a major sleeper in Walker here. Walker will likely play free safety at the next level. He’s a smooth mover in coverage and posted solid ball production at Louisiana.):   https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/04/26/2018-nfl-draft-live-tracker-instant-analysis-for-every-pick/

Sporting News (The Lions reach a little for a free safety with size, but former Pro Bowler Glover Quinn is 32, and Walker shares many of the same traits as an active, rangy cover man.):  http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/draft/2018/draft-results/round/3

USA Today (82. Lions — Tracy Walker, S, Louisiana: New Detroit coach Matt Patricia has become accustomed to operating with a deep, diverse group of safeties. Walker is a new option alongside Glover Quin and Tavon Wilson.):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2018/04/27/nfl-draft-live-tracker-2018-pick-analysis-round-2-3/559016002/

Detroit News (18 (82). Detroit: Tracy Walker, DB, Louisiana Lafayette: The Lions went with to the defensive side of the ball for the first time in this draft, but it's not along the defensive line, and that's going to make some people unhappy. Walker is 6'1", 206 pounds and is a very good tackler that can make a lot of plays on the football. He's likely to play safety for the Lions, though it's hard to see how he starts in 2018. Upon making the pick, Bob Quinn and Matt Patricia were celebrating with enthusiasm in the Lions' draft room. Meanwhile, Michigan defensive tackle Mo Hurst is still on the board thanks to a heart issue that it appears a lot of team doctors won't sign off on, despite the fact that many other physicians have cleared him to play. A lot of chatter around town zeroed in on the Lions taking Hurst in the second round, but it's become apparent that he's probably not even on their draft board because getting him in the third round could have been the steal of the draft.):  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/2018/04/27/lives-updates-lions-fans-set-day-2-nfl-draft/34325841/

ESPN:  http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/33713/detroit-lions-2018-draft-analysis-for-every-selection

Kerryon Johnson links from after the draft

Articles:

Greg Cosell analyzes Lions' 2018 draft picks (Kerryon Johnson: “Johnson is a very patient runner with excellent vision and feel for reading his blocks and finding holes at the line of scrimmage. Johnson is a prime example of speed through the hole not speed to the hole. His short area burst consistently showed up and was a defining trait of his running. “What consistently stood out about Johnson was he was a highly competitive runner, who ran with physicality and toughness and courage inside and squeezed every inch out of every run. “My sense is Johnson would be most effective in a run game whose foundation was more gap scheme than zone, although he could be effective running inside zone. The question is whether Johnson transitions to the NFL as a workhorse back. He's a four-yards-and-a-cloud-of-dust type of runner without an explosive dimension to his game. He is not a game breaking type of runner, but a sustainer who can keep an offense on schedule. "He runs hard. He's a hard, hard runner.") (4-30-18):  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/Greg-Cosell-analyzes-Lions-2018-draft-picks/8bb4d4f2-e55a-4879-8b3f-1a7bc7b5a1e3

WATCH: Kerryon Johnson's road to the NFL (4-30-18):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/30/watch-kerryon-johnsons-road-to-the-nfl/

Kerryon Johnson ripped the SEC as an inside runner. Detroit has a different plan (4-30-18):  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/kerryon_johnson_ripped_the_sec.html

2018 NFL draft recap: The best and riskiest Lions picks, and what's left to do (Biggest risk: Kerryon Johnson was an outstanding running back in the country's best conference. Matter of fact, he led the SEC in rushing last year, then was named that league's best offensive player. He was one of just five draft-eligible backs who broke 50 tackles last year, even though the bulk of his carries were between the guards. And I found it interesting Bob Quinn came out and said Detroit intends to run him more outside, indicating there's some untapped potential there because of the way Auburn chose to use him. But with all that said, there's no doubt Quinn paid a handsome price too. It cost him a fourth-round pick to move up eight spots for Johnson in Round 2, then he later traded away next year's third-round pick to move back into the fourth round for Alabama DE Da'Shawn Hand.  So, effectively, the Lions used this year's second-round pick and next year's third-round pick to move up eight spots for Johnson. That's a hell of a lot to pay for the sixth running back off the board. That's not to say they overpaid. Maybe he'll be great -- Quinn certainly seems to think so -- in which case, the price was worth it. But the cost of the pick, in a draft where the Lions were sitting on their fewest picks in 20 years, makes this the gamble of the draft.]p) (4-29-18):  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/2018_nfl_draft_recap_the_best.html

Shaquem Griffin and the best pick for all 32 teams (Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn (43rd pick): The Lions signed LeGarrette Blount this offseason but Johnson has drawn comparisons to Le'Veon Bell, and if he's 65-70 percent of what Bells gives the Steelers, the Lions will finally have some much-needed balance on offense.) (4-29-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/best-2018-nfl-draft-picks-for-all-32-teams-including-shaquem-griffin-to-seahawks/

Lions second-round pick Kerryon Johnson once called Dez Bryant 'a little girl' (4-29-18):  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/lions_second-round_pick_kerryo.html

Lions' Johnson: 'Dream' to follow Barry Sanders (4-28-18):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/27/detroit-lions-kerryon-johnson-barry-sanders/560552002/

Was the Lions' trade up for RB Kerryon Johnson the right move? (4-28-18):  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/poll_what_do_you_think_about_t.html

Lions GM Bob Quinn takes risks on Day 2 of NFL draft (4-28-18):   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/lions_gm_bob_quinn_takes_risks.html

Here is the Detroit Lions' 2018 draft class (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/expo/erry-2018/04/b83ff334dc745/here_is_the_detroit_lions_2018.html

Quinn: Lions came into draft targeting Kerryon Johnson (4-27-18):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/27/quinn-lions-came-into-draft-targeting-kerryon-johnson/

New Lions RB vows to spend all night listening to Detroit's Tee Grizzley (4-27-18):   https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/27/new-lions-rb-vows-to-spend-all-night-listening-to-detroits-tee-grizzley/

Lions prioritized Kerryon Johnson, hoping to finally get a 100-yard rusher (4-27-18):  http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/04/27/lions-trade-up-for-kerryon-johnson-at-no-43/

Some Lions fans scratching their heads at trading up to draft RB Kerryon Johnson (4-27-18):  http://www.mlive.com/expo/erry-2018/04/61832158317339/some_lions_fans_scratching_the.html

2018 NFL draft: Lions trade up for Auburn RB Kerryon Johnson in Round 2 (4-27-18):  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/2018_nfl_draft_lions_trade_up.html

Meet the Lions' second-round pick: RB Kerryon Johnson (4-27-18):   https://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/27/meet-lions-second-round-pick-rb-kerryon-johnson/34332091/

Kerryon Johnson is worth your follow on Twitter (4-27-18):   https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/27/detroit-lions-rb-kerryon-johnson-comedic-champion-twitter/560256002/

Details of Lions-Pats trade for Kerryon Johnson (4-27-18):   https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/27/detroit-lions-patriots-trade-kerryon-johnson/560405002/

Lions trade up, draft Auburn RB Kerryon Johnson (4-27-18):   https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/27/detroit-lions-kerryon-johnson/554888002/

BOB WOJNOWSKI Wojo: Lions make needed leap for RB Kerryon Johnson (4-27-18):  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/columnists/bob-wojnowski/2018/04/27/wojo-quinns-bold-move-pays-dashing-rb-johnson/34338455/

Meet Lions' Day 2 picks Kerryon Johnson and Tracy Walker (4-27-18):  https://www.detroitnews.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/27/meet-lions-day-2-picks-kerryon-johnson-and-tracy-walker/34332577/

Lions trade up, grab 'patient' Auburn RB Kerryon Johnson (4-27-18):  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/27/lions-trade-up-grab-auburn-rb-kerryon-johnson/34330829/

A CLOSER LOOK: Running back Kerryon Johnson:  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/A-CLOSER-LOOK-Running-back-Kerryon-Johnson/fa488abe-e5d3-45c6-a732-47cc8dade3d0

Lions trade up, draft running back Kerryon Johnson (4-27-18):  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/A-CLOSER-LOOK-Running-back-Kerryon-Johnson/fa488abe-e5d3-45c6-a732-47cc8dade3d0

Roster Impact of the Lions drafting RB Kerryon Johnson (4-27-18):   https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/27/roster-impact-of-the-lions-drafting-rb-kerryon-johnson/

New Lions RB Kerryon Johnson wishes he'd been alive to watch Barry Sanders (4-27-18):   https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/27/new-lions-rb-kerryon-johnson-wishes-hed-been-alive-to-watch-barry-sanders/

OnePride Twitter reacts to Lions trading up for Auburn RB Kerryon Johnson (4-27-18):   https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/27/onepride-twitter-reacts-to-lions-trading-up-for-auburn-rb-kerryon-johnson/

Lions trade up in 2nd round, draft RB Kerryon Johnson (4-27-18):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/27/lions-trade-up-in-2nd-round-draft-rb-kerryon-johnson/

Why Lions fans should be excited about Kerryon Johnson (4-27-18):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/04/27/why-lions-fans-should-be-excited-about-kerryon-johnson/

Videos:

DRAFT REVIEW WITH CHRIS SPIELMAN: DAY 2:  http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Draft-review-with-Chris-Spielman-Day-2/091841d3-0ad4-40bd-8715-155670af925b

Tori Petry, Tim Twentyman and Mike O'Hara recap the Lions' second day in the 2018 NFL Draft.:  http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tori-Mike-and-Tim-Reacting-to-draft-day-2/13c76b18-c63b-4f1b-9bc0-2f64a9

WATCH: Lions RB Johnson's college game tape:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/27/detroit-lions-kerryon-johnson/560303002/

Listen to running back Kerryon Johnson's introductory conference call after being selected by the Lions in the second round of the 2018 draft.:  http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Conference-call-Kerryon-Johnson/d57d84bd-bd48-4cc0-b495-62fcd2b8f339

Breaking down Kerryon Johnson's college highlights:  http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Breaking-down-Kerryon-Johnsons-college-highlights/41139e4e-38c7-48e2-ae8d-1fa1b75b6704

Kerryon Johnson's full 2018 NFL Scouting Combine workout:  http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Kerryon-Johnsons-full-Combine-workout/abbfbe34-d67b-464f-8331-ad0e6bb94200

Nate Burleson announces Lions second-round pick: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Nate-Burleson-announces-Lions-second-round-pick/0f5a2343-1371-4945-aee7-75240cb1dd20

KERRYON JOHNSON HIGHLIGHTS:  http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Kerryon-Johnson-Highlights/b6473aa6-aab1-4f82-b1a6-617f73b1cc74

Grades and Analysis for Day 2 pick

Grades:

CBS (43. Kerryon Johnson, Grade: A
- GRADE ANAYLSIS: I love this pick. The Lions have their lead runner. He will be a big-time producer on the ground.  Draft Prospect Outlook:  Power back size with the ability to deploy vicious jump cuts to make defenders miss in the hole. Runs through tackles and almost always finishes runs hard. Doesn't have breakaway speed but is fast enough to beat linebackers around the corner. Surprisingly elusive for his size.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/draft-tracker/

Lions get an A for drafting Auburn RB Johnson:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/27/detroit-lions-kerryon-johnson/560189002/

Draft grades: B from Birkett, C+ from Monarrez (Birkett - Johnson:  Two running backs went in the first six picks of the second round, which left Johnson as the Lions’ most viable option to improve their league-worst running game. Rather than wait and risk losing him, Bob Quinn made the aggressive move to go up eight spots and take Johnson. A slasher as a runner, Johnson will play as part of the Lions’ backfield-by-committee this fall and perhaps take an even bigger role in 2019. He comes with a little bit of an injury history, but he was one of the more complete backs in this class and earned a similar grade from the Lions to Derrius Guice, who never was viewed as a culture fit in Detroit. A-minus):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-grades/561721002/

Walterfootball (Detroit Lions: Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn B+ Grade - Still no Derrius Guice? The Lions taking Kerryon Johnson makes more sense than Guice because of their scheme, plus he's a better fit for the type of player the Bill Belichick tree likes. Johnson will mesh well with Matthew Stafford, as he'll be a big weapon out of the backfield, catching all of the passes thrown at or behind the line of scrimmage, a staple of Detroit's offense. I'm not sure the Lions had to trade up for Johnson, but I like this pick):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades2.php

PFW (43. Lions (from Patriots) — Auburn RB Kerryon Johnson — Grade: B+: Bob Quinn takes his biggest swing as Lions GM at solving the NFL's worst rushing attack — and he links up with old pal Bill Belichick in moving up eight spots and sending No. 117 to New England to do it. That's a decent amount to give up, but Johnson is one of the more underrated backs in this class, a really tough runner who gains every inch and matches the mold of first-rounder Frank Ragnow. It's clear Quinn and Matt Patricia are serious about adding some power to the offense.):  http://www.profootballweekly.com/lists/2018/04/27/09173036/index.xml?page=12

SI (43. Kerryon Johnson, Grade - B:  The Lions are determined to inject some life and consistency into what’s been a mostly nonexistent ground game. After taking Arkansas center Frank Ragnow in Round 1, they go with a power-running back in Round 2. Matthew Stafford is one of the NFL’s most respected QBs, and with a ground game to balance the offense, he has a chance to now become a line-of-scrimmage-audibling field general that outsiders can finally appreciate.  Scouting Report: A big back who moves with exceptional body control, Johnson carried a huge workload for Auburn last season. He can grind out yards between the tackles, and runs with that Le’Veon Bell-like patience. He rolled up 104 yards on 30 carries with an injured shoulder in the Iron Bowl upset of Alabama, and offers an early-down workhorse with a chance to develop in as a receiver.): https://www.si.com/draft/nfl/2018/draft-tracker?round=2

Draftwire (43. Detroit Lions (from SF via NE) | Kerryon Johnson | RB | Auburn | B:  Another SEC running back off the board ahead of LSU’s Derrius Guice, which continues to surprise me (barring any confirmation of true off-field issues). The Lions need a physical, punishing runner to help balance this offense, and that’s exactly what they get here. Despite his leaner frame, Johnson delivers a punch and doesn’t shy away from contact. He’s the workhorse this offense needs, but Guice would have been a better value.):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/2018-nfl-draft-grading-every-pick-from-day-2/2/

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NFL Chad Reuter (Day 1 Grade - A, Day 2 Grade - C, Overall Grade - B+:  The skinny: Detroit got stronger in the middle by picking Ragnow, who could play guard for now, or move to center if needed. Either way, he'll move the line of scrimmage. Matthew Stafford feels better already. The Lions were so interested in Johnson that they gave up a fourth-round pick to move up eight spots. That's marginal value, though I expect Johnson will be a good back. Walker was picked two rounds earlier than expected, but he has the skills to become a starter in the league.):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000929730/article/2018-nfl-draft-quicksnap-grades-for-every-team-through-day-2

Articles:

ESPN's Mel Kiper says Lions pick Kerryon Johnson can 'be a workhorse':  http://www.mlive.com/sports/2018/04/espns_mel_kiper_says_lions_pic.html#incart_river_mobile_index

Mayock's Analysis (43. Kerryon Johnson, RB, Detroit Lions:  Came back this year with a vengeance. He's a lateral, jump-cut runner and I love how he finishes north-south.):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000929490/article/mike-mayocks-pickbypick-draft-analysis-for-rounds-23-results

NFL draft TV reaction: RB Johnson a 'workhorse':   https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/27/detroit-lions-draft-tv-reaction-kerryon-johnson/560333002/

Pat Caputo - My thoughts on Lions moving up and taking Kerryon Johnson in 2nd round of NFL Draft:   http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20180427/pat-caputo-my-thoughts-on-lions-moving-up-and-taking-kerryon-johnson-in-2nd-round-of-nfl-draft

Draftwire (43. Detroit Lions (from SF via NE) | Kerryon Johnson | RB | Auburn
Another SEC running back off the board, but not the one I expected. With Guice still on the board, the Lions trade up for another physical runner in Johnson, who powered the Tigers to an SEC West title.): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/04/26/2018-nfl-draft-live-tracker-instant-analysis-for-every-pick/

Sporting News (The Lions get a back with a good combination of power and explosiveness with the hopes he can be a three-down option. With LeGarrette Blount adding to Ameer Abdullah and Theo Riddick, Johnson has a good chance to trump all three for heavy touches.):  http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/draft/2018/draft-results/round/2

USA Today (43. Lions (from 49ers via Patriots) —Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn: New coach Matt Patricia (and GM Bob Quinn) deal with old buddy Bill Belichick for the first time in this draft. And after a rousing speech from former Detroit WR Nate Burleson, the Lions take Johnson to address a ground attack that finished last in 2017, 2015 and hasn't been better than 28th since 2013. Johnson ran for 18 TDs and nearly 1,400 yards against SEC competition, but his 6-foot, 213-pound frame is reason for concern with a team that's struggled to keep its backs healthy in recent years.): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2018/04/27/nfl-draft-live-tracker-2018-pick-analysis-round-2-3/559016002/

Detroit News (11 (43). Detroit (from New England): Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn

The Lions have their running back, and it isn't Derrius Guice. The Lions traded up with the Patriots (of course) to select Johnson (5'11", 213 pounds). Johnson rushed for nearly 1,400 yards and 18 touchdowns for the Tigers in 2017.  There will be some questions why the Lions didn't take Guice, but Johnson is now the sixth tailback off the board before Guice, and the Lions paid to get him, sending the 51st overall pick (obviously) and their fourth round selection (117th overall) to the Patriots.):  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/2018/04/27/lives-updates-lions-fans-set-day-2-nfl-draft/34325841/

PFF (Lions backs struggled to break tackles last season, and Kerryon Johnson forced 50 on 285 carries last year. He also showed a propensity for the big play, as he had 16 runs of 15-plus yards for Auburn in 2017. Running back was a big need for the Lions coming into the draft, thus with so many off the board already at this point it should be no surprise to see them trade up to get their guy. They traded the No. 51 and 117 picks for the 43rd overall pick.): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/2018-nfl-draft-live-blog

ESPN:  http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/33713/detroit-lions-2018-draft-analysis-for-every-selection

Draftwire:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/27/analysis-of-detroit-lions-trade-with-patriots-for-kerryon-johnson/

Kerryon Johnson Links from before the draft

RB Kerryon Johnson:

Scouting Reports:

Auburn Bio:  http://www.auburntigers.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/kerryon_johnson_973962.html

NFL:  http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/kerryon-johnson?id=2560052

NFL Draft Scout:  http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=1002510&draftyear=2018&genpos=RB

Draft Wire:  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/26/kerryon-johnson-nfl-draft-profile/

Draft analyst:   http://draftanalyst.com/kerryon-johnson

Kerryon Johnson NFL draft profile:  http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/26/kerryon-johnson-nfl-draft-profile/

Overall Rankings (Average Ranking is 69):

Walterfootball (47. RB Kerryon Johnson):  http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Gil Brandt's top 150 (53.  Kerryon Johnson):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000926641/article/hot-150-gil-brandts-top-prospects-for-2018-nfl-draft-51100

Rob Rang (54. RB Kerryon Johnson):  https://www.themaven.net/nfldraftscout/news/rob-rang-s-final-top-100-big-board-99RsZLoYnE2-8K7uQfAB-A/?full=1

Draft Scout (57.  Kerryon Johnson):  https://www.draftscout.com/members/ratings/tsx_top1000.php?draftyear=2018&sortby=rateall&order=ASC&startspot=50

PFW (60. Auburn RB Kerryon Johnson — We’re prepared to be surprised by his early-career production if he’s cast in the right role. He might not have a long career the way he runs, but Johnson should be valuable and fun to watch. I also love that he doesn’t fumble.):   http://www.profootballweekly.com/__uuid/492e4470-f01e-4968-9411-8f2578100317/

Rotoworld Thor (61.  RB Kerryon Johnson):   http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/79406/325/top-400-nfl-draft-big-board

ESPN (66. RB Kerryon Johnson):  http://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2018/story/_/id/23201964/2018-nfl-draft-jeff-legwold-ranking-top-100-prospects-picks

CBS (74.  Kerryon Johnson):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/

Draft Tek (74. Kerryon Johnson):  https://www.drafttek.com/m/Top-100-NFL-Draft-Prospects-2018.asp

Draft Countdown (76.  Kerryon Johnson):  http://www.draftcountdown.com/nfl-draft-ranking/2018-top-300-overall/

Mike Mayock's Top 100 (78.  Kerryon Johnson):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000928186/article/mike-mayocks-2018-nfl-draft-top-100-prospect-rankings

Rotoworld top 200 (86. RB Kerryon Johnson):  http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/79419/325/norris-top-150-draft-board

PFF (107.  RB Kerryon Johnson):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-pff-big-board-top-250-players-for-the-2018-nfl-draft

Positional rankings (Average Ranking is 7):

Draft Scout (RB - 6. Kerryon Johnson):  http://www.draftscout.com/members/ratings/tsx_players.php?genpos=RB&draftyear=2018&sortorder=tsxpos&order=ASC

Draft Analyst (6. Kerryon Johnson):  http://draftanalyst.com/ranking?position=RB&year=

NFL Real GM (6. Kerryon Johnson, AuburnVersatile back who can handle returns, catch the ball out of the backfield and even operate as a Wildcat QB—his high school role. Explosive athlete in terms of burst, cuts and pop but he’s not top-end fast. Shows vision and ability to string together moves when he gets a little space. Very popular with teammates, and opponents consistently talked him up more than the crowded SEC media did. Lower ceiling, higher floor than most of this class, which will appeal to some teams a lot more than others. Should be a reliable, versatile cog in a shared backfield but does have some Matt Forte to his game. Worthy second-rounder):  https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3041/2018-NFL-Draft-Prospecting-Running-Backs

Walterfootball (RB - 7. Kerryon Johnson:  4/24/18: Johnson was solid in the field work at the combine, but did not run the 40-yard dash. Some teams like him in the second round and others project him into Round 3.  Johnson carried Auburn to wins over Alabama and Georgia to put his draft stock on the map late in the 2017 season. Versus both defenses loaded with NFL talent, Johnson showed real quickness with good cutting ability, vision, and decisive downhill running. He also played banged up, illustrating his toughness to withstand a heavy work load and some hard hits. In 2017, Johnson averaged 4.9 yards per carry for 1,391 yards with 18 touchdowns. He also had 24 receptions for 194 yards and two scores.  Johnson was the workhorse for Auburn in 2017 and the team engine for their second-half surge. Johnson ran for 895 yards and 11 scores in 2016.):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2018RB.php

CBS (RB - 7.  Kerryon Johnson):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/runningbacks/

Draft Countdown (RB - 7. Kerryon Johnson):   http://www.draftcountdown.com/nfl-draft-ranking/2018-running-back-rankings/

Draft Tek (RB - 7. Kerryon Johnson):   https://www.drafttek.com/2018-NFL-Draft-Prospect-Rankings/Top-College-RBs-2018-Draft.asp

Articles:

TWENTYMAN: 10 prospects who could interest Lions on Day 2 (Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn:  Johnson earned first-team All-SEC honors with 1,391 yards and 18 touchdowns on 285 carries in 12 games. He also caught 24 passes for 194 yards and two touchdowns. NFL teams will love that kind of versatility and three-down potential.) (4-27-18):  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/TWENTYMAN-10-prospects-who-could-interest-Lions-on-Day-2/a6e67ac2-f4a6-4d8e-959c-57ee5bcfbd4f

Best Players Still Available For Day 2 Of NFL Draft (RB - Kerryon Johnson, Auburn- The workhorse back for Auburn last season, Johnson toted the ball 285 times for 1,391 yards and 18 TDs as a junior.) (4-27-18):  http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2018/04/27/best-players-available-day-2-nfl-draft-2018/

Draft profile: Breaking down Kerryon Johnson's college highlights (4-27-18):   http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-draft/0ap3000000926227/Draft-profile-Breaking-down-Kerryon-Johnson-s-college-highlight

Kerryon Johnson's full 2018 NFL Scouting Combine workout (4-27-18):  http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-combine/0ap3000000924447/Kerryon-Johnson-s-full-2018-NFL-Scouting-Combine-workout

Prospect Profile: Kerryon Johnson - ESPN Video (4-20-18):   http://www.espn.com/video/clip?id=23265813

Meet Kerryon Johnson, Auburn's wrecking ball of a RB prospect (4-18-18):   https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/04/18/meet-kerryon-johnson-auburns-wrecking-ball-of-a-rb-prospect/

Lions host Auburn RB Johnson on pre-draft visit (4-11-18):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/11/auburn-rb-kerryon-johnson-nfl-draft/508914002/

2018 NFL Draft Stock - Pro Day V (Stock Down - Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn Over last weekend, I surveying team sources about the running back class and in what range players should go. One of the players who I heard needed to be lower was Johnson. Sources felt that the middle of second round was a little high for Johnson and thought he would go later. With that in mind, Johnson could be more of a late second-round or early third-round pick. There has been a good buzz about Derrius Guice and Sony Michel in the leadup to the 2018 NFL Draft, but Johnson has not enjoyed that. He could end up going lower than expected.) (4-11-18):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock_31.php

NFL Draft: Why Saquon Barkley is like Edgerrin James, Derrius Guice is like Marshawn and more RB comparisons (Kerryon Johnson, Auburn - NFL comparison: Carlos Hyde - The balance Johnson displayed during his brief time in the SEC was extremely impressive, and Hyde can stay on his feet while absorbing hits unlike the vast majority of the bigger backs in the NFL. Neither is a home-run hitter. Both get stronger as the game progresses as their strong-willed running style seems to wear down opposing defenses.) (4-5-18):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-draft-why-saquon-barkley-is-like-edgerrin-james-derrius-guice-is-like-marshawn-and-more-rb-comparisons/

Kerryon Johnson's 40-yard run highlights Auburn pro day (3-19-18):  http://www.espn.com/espn/wire/_/section/ncf/id/22705329

Saquon Barkley blows apart NFL combine; Derrius Guice shines too (Other running backs who had good days include Auburn's Kerryon Johnson and Alabama's Bo Scarborough, both of whom jumped 40 inches in the vertical. That was second behind Barkley. Johnson is a potential second-round pick, while Scarborough is ticketed for the middle rounds.) (3-2-18):  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/03/saquon_barkley_among_biggest_w.html

NFL combine: RBs Saquon Barkley, Derrius Guice impress on Friday (Auburn running back Kerryon Johnson, a potential second-round choice, and Alabama's Bo Scarborough, both posted 40-inch verticals, tied for second behind Barkley — just four running backs have topped 40 inches in the past three years, including Ameer Abdullah and Zach Zenner.) (3-2-18):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/03/02/detroit-lions-nfl-combine-derrius-guice-ronald-jones/391057002/

NFL Combine Studs and Duds: Running backs (Mixed Results - Kerryon Johnson (Auburn) had average testing numbers, and not running a 40-yard dash left me puzzled. While their on-field drills went well, both left me wanting more from players expected to perform like Alvin Kamara.) (3-2-18):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/03/02/nfl-combine-studs-duds-running-backs/

2018 NFL Scouting Combine: Day 2 News and Notes (Other notable running back bench press numbers: Sony Michel (22), Josh Adams (18), Mark Walton (18), Royce Freeman (17), Derrius Guice (15), John Kelly (15), Bo Scarbrough (14), Kerryon Johnson (11).) (3-1-18):  http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-nfl-scouting-combine-day-2-news-notes

Thursday's winners, losers at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine (Winner - While some of his running back counterparts dominated the bench press, Johnson proved brute strength just isn’t his strong suit with the numbers he put up Thursday.  A more physical back than his lean frame might suggest, Johnson could struggle to maintain that style of play at the next level, even after playing in a tough conference like the SEC. Hopefully, he’s able to bounce back with a strong performance the rest of the week instead of falling behind in a deep class at his position.) (3-1-18):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/03/01/thursdays-winners-losers-at-the-2018-nfl-scouting-combine/3/

Kerryon Johnson explains why Marshawn Lynch is his 'spirit animal' (2-27-18):   http://www.nfl.com/goto?id=0ap3000000917276

NFL Combine preview: Key medical evaluations (Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn:  One of the toughest backs I’ve ever evaluated, Johnson competes with a high pain tolerance, but his list of career injuries is extensive, dating back to high school.) (2-21-18):  http://draftscout.tsxfiles.com/2018/02/21/nfl-combine-preview-key-medical-evaluations/

Offensive Draft Position Ranks (I like Kerryon Johnson more than most. During the season, I referred to him as a “souped-up," rich man’s version of Wayne Gallman. Since then, his style has been compared to Le'Veon Bell's by NFL Media's Daniel Jeremiah. Thinking of Johnson as existing somewhere on the line of continuum between Gallman and Bell is instructive. What jumped out when watching Johnson at Auburn was his Zen master-level patience. When he gets the ball, he doesn’t blindly charge ahead. He’s like you when you approach the registers at Target on Christmas Eve, calmly surveying what will be your quickest option before choosing a line. Johnson is very quick, and he trusts his eyes, a damn effective combination. He’s also got a little power to him, and Johnson is a plus in the passing game. And you have to love how Johnson made his star turn in 2017 when Kam Pettway disappeared and he became the undisputed RB1 bellcow.) (2-15-18):  http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77940/325/offensive-draft-position-ranks

2018 Combine Preview: Running back (Kerryon Johnson - Best trait:  Size and speed combo. He combines physicality with a nice burst, which means he can handle inside and outside runs equally well, which is a nice trait to have.  Concern: Some of the concerns addressed by analysts when it comes to Johnson are more on his upright running style. Will it lead to some durability issues?  Skinny: He carried the load for Auburn as a junior this year (1,391 yards and 18 TDs on 285 carries), and was particularly impressive in Auburn's upset win over Alabama and the Tide's terrific defense. Johnson is a three-down back with a lot of versatility to his game, which some creative NFL offenses will love.) (2-14-18):  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/2018-Combine-Preview-Running-back/e9878a95-2c18-4cc5-a529-e02e3693e675

Here are fumble rates for NFL Draft running back prospects (Below are the career offensive fumble rates for the top running back prospects in the 2018 NFL Draft class, broken down into five categories: ELITE (150 or better) 191.3 -- Kerryon Johnson, Auburn) (2-11-18):  http://draftscout.com/members/news/cfb_column.php?story_id=188838

What Mel Kiper Jr. said about Auburn's Braden Smith, Kerryon Johnson, Jeff Holland, Daniel Carlson (Kiper said he is "not as high on Kerryon Johnson" as others, but did not give a round grade to the SEC's Offensive Player of the Year.  Other analysts have Johnson, who had 1,391 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns, 24 receptions for 194 yards and two scores and a passing touchdown last season, going anywhere from the first to the fourth round. Kiper's ESPN colleague Todd McShay ranked Johnson, also training at EXOS, as the No. 23 overall prospect, but not in the first round.) (1-18-18):  http://www.al.com/auburnfootball/index.ssf/2018/01/mel_kiper_jr_braden_smith.html

NFL Draft 2018 could offer hope for Lions in form of these 10 running backs (Kerryon Johnson, Auburn:  The Lions haven't had a 100-yard rusher since the days when Tony Romo was a starting NFL quarterback because they never have anything close to a feature back, the type of workhorse who can earn and deliver on 20-plus carries a game. Kerryon Johnson was that at Auburn this year when he totaled 1,391 yards and 18 touchdowns on a steady 4.9 yards per carry. At a listed 6 feet and 200 pounds, he isn't the dynamic runner who will lead the league in rushing, but he is a tough one, fighting through injuries to be the focal point of an offense. He has ground down some of the best defenses just as they know he's getting the ball, with a patient approach off the snap and the finishing runs to be a consistent force. He's a player who can probably be had without spending a first-round pick.) (1-8-18):  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/01/here_are_10_running_back_prosp.html

Auburn RB Kerryon Johnson to apply to enter 2018 draft (Johnson played a key role in spearheading Auburn's push back into national prominence and a Peach Bowl berth, rushing for a conference-best 1,320 yards and 17 touchdowns in helping the Tigers secure the SEC West division title. In addition to the offensive player of the year honor, Johnson also was an All-SEC First Team selection.  In his final collegiate game, the versatile, speedy running back ran for 71 yards and a touchdown on 22 carries in a loss to UCF in the Peach Bowl on New Year's Day. There were questions whether he would play after suffering rib and shoulder injuries late in the season.) (1-2-18):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000902169/article/auburn-rb-kerryon-johnson-to-apply-to-enter-2018-draft

Three takeaways from UCF's Peach Bowl win over Auburn (While Auburn running back Kerryon Johnson had 71 rushing yards and a touchdown, he never had that big play and was limited to 3.2 yards per carry. Johnson, who ran for 204 yards against Ole Miss earlier this season and had 100-yard games against Georgia, Alabama and LSU, couldn't find a rhythm against the speedy Knights defense.) (1-1-18):  http://www.sportingnews.com/ca/ncaa-football/news/georgia-alabama-cfbplayoff-national-championship-three-reasons-bulldogs/1sr7s8pbd4xde119yasvm2nv44

Scouting the Peach Bowl: UCF vs. Auburn (While the conversation starts with Saquon Barkley when talking about underclassmen running backs, Kerryon Johnson has probably improved his draft stock more than any other ball carrier this season. A part-time starter last year and mid-round choice before the season started, Johnson proved himself to be a feature runner in 2017, carrying the Auburn offense on his shoulders at times. He’s a big back that pounds opponents on the inside while showing solid short-area quickness. Johnson will enter the draft after the Peach Bowl and projects as a potential late first-round pick.) (12-31-17):  http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-peach-bowl-ucf-vs-auburn

Tim Tebow: Kerryon Johnson 'should have been higher' in Heisman voting (12-31-17):  http://www.al.com/auburnfootball/index.ssf/2017/12/tebow_kerryon_johnson_heisman.html

The Rundown on Rushers (Kerryon Johnson, Auburn: Johnson has battled injuries this fall, but when healthy, he looks just like Le'Veon Bell. I love his patience, vision and balance.) (12-15-17):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000893205/article/browns-could-be-juggernaut-5-bowls-that-will-shape-nfl-draft

Auburn running back Kerryon Johnson's status for Peach Bowl undetermined (The star running back, who was held to a season-low 44 rushing yards on 13 carries while playing through injuries to his right shoulder and ribs in the SEC Championship Game, is still recovering from those injuries.) (12-13-17):  http://www.al.com/auburnfootball/index.ssf/2017/12/auburn_running_back_kerryon_jo_9.html

Post Season Risers/Sliders Final - Offense (Riser - Kerryon Johnson/Auburn: Scouts who graded juniors before the season stamped Johnson as a free-agent prospect while his teammate Kamryn Pettway was given a mid-round grade. We also underrated the talented ball carrier, stamping him with a fifth-round grade. Johnson proved to be a dominant one-man show and carried the Tigers offense. Auburn lost three games this year, and during two of those losses Johnson didn’t play or was severely hampered by a shoulder injury. He possesses the tools to be a feature runner at the next level and will be drafted accordingly -- which means late-first or early-second round.) (12-11-17):  http://draftanalyst.com/post-season-riserssliders-final-offense

Sources Tell Us (The scoop: "When I watched Auburn and Alabama, that Auburn running back stood out. He's kind of upright as a runner but, man, was he physical against that front." -- NFL executive on Kerryon Johnson.  The skinny: Johnson's value to the Auburn offense was on full display with not just what he did against Alabama, but also what he was unable to do against Georgia thanks to a lingering shoulder injury from the Alabama win. Johnson is a tall, angular runner who is more of a banger than a slasher, but he has the short-area foot quickness to elude tacklers and create for himself. While Penn State's Saquon Barkley and LSU's Derrius Guice are the RBs who receive the most buzz in scouting circles, Johnson might be third on the list.) (12-7-17):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000889122/article/sources-tell-us-bradley-chubb-makes-case-to-be-first-de-drafted

Prospect matchups in the SEC Title Game (There are a variety of matchups in this game but, far and away, the ability of Georgia’s talented linebackers to stop a banged-up Kerryon Johnson tops the list.  Johnson has been dominant for the Tigers this season, elevating his game as well as his draft grade. He’s presently ranked as the third-rated prospect on our running back board and if all goes well in the lead up to the draft, Johnson could sneak into the first round. The big ball carrier suffered a shoulder injury during last week’s victory over Alabama which will limit him today -- and that’s a shame.) (12-2-17):  http://draftanalyst.com/prospect-matchups-sec-title-game

What's wrong with Kerryon Johnson’s shoulder? Here are a few possibilities (11-30-17):  http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/story/sports/college/auburn/2017/11/30/whats-wrong-kerryon-johnsons-shoulder-here-few-possibilities/910748001/

2018 NFL Draft Stock - Week 13 (Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn:  Johnson has carried Auburn to wins over Alabama and Georgia to put his draft stock on the map late in the 2017 season. Versus the Crimson Tide defense loaded with NFL talent, Johnson showed real quickness with good cutting ability, vision, and decisive downhill running. He also played banged up, illustrating his toughness to withstand a heavy work load and some hard hits. Johnson totaled 104 yards on 30 carries and a touchdown against Alabama. This season, he has been the workhorse for the Tigers and the team engine for their second half surge. Johnson has second-day potential if he enters the 2018 NFL Draft.) (11-28-17):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock_13.php

Stock Report: USF’s Quinton Flowers has NFL skills (Averaging almost 30 offensive touches per game since becoming the featured back in September, Auburn junior RB Kerryon Johnson (5-11, 212, 4.45, #21) has proven to be a productive workhorse and the MVP of the SEC West champs. He became just the 13th player to rush for 100-plus yards against Alabama during Nick Saban’s tenure as head coach, but the punishment of the position caught up with him in the fourth quarter when he exited with a right shoulder injury on his 30th carry of the game. He is a proven tough guy, but his status for the SEC Championship Game is very much up in the air.) (11-27-17):  http://tsxfiles.com/blog/2017/11/27/stock-report-usfs-quinton-flowers-has-nfl-skills/

Kerryon Johnson’s only goal: 'To get back out there' after shoulder injury (11-27-17):  http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/story/sports/college/auburn/2017/11/27/kerryon-johnsons-only-goal-to-get-back-out-there-after-shoulder-injury/899906001/

Alabama at Auburn score, highlights: No. 6 Tigers beat No. 1 Tide, will play for SEC title (Johnson went out in the fourth quarter after aggravating a shoulder injury that he sustained one play before his third quarter touchdown run.) (11-26-17):  https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/alabama-at-auburn-score-highlights-no-6-tigers-beat-no-1-tide-will-play-for-sec-title/

2018 NFL Draft watch: Top quarterbacks shine during rivalry week (Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn — The 6-foot, 212-pound junior ran for 104 yards and his 17th touchdown of the season and even threw a 3-yard touchdown pass in Saturday's 26-14 win over No. 1 Alabama. Johnson has gone under the radar, but has everything you'd want in an NFL back. There is some concern after he left Saturday's game with an injury.) (11-26-17):  http://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-top-quarterbacks-baker-mayfield-lamar-jackson-riley-ferguson/niqa8v9dwulg13qy412pxzm8g

Scouting Iron Bowl: Shades of Le'Veon Bell in Kerryon Johnson (1. I'll be sticking with my Le'Veon Bell comp for Kerryon Johnson after watching the Auburn RB on Saturday. After studying Johnson last week, I came away thinking the two backs had similar running styles, and Johnson validated that comp on Saturday. He showed he's a complete back against Alabama. He did get beat on one occasion in pass protection, but there were several other times when he put himself right in the middle of the pass rush and held up well.  He also had some impressive runs where he was able to pick up at least a few yards when there were no holes open for him. Johnson carries a heavy workload (30 carries for 104 yards and 3 catches for 21 yards vs. Alabama) and had to leave the game late with a shoulder injury. Hopefully he's OK and will be ready to go against Georgia next week.  I think he's one of the four best running backs in college football with Penn State's Saquon Barkley, LSU's Derrius Guice, and USC's Ronald Jones. Those are the best RBs I've seen this fall.(11-25-17):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000882489/article/scouting-iron-bowl-shades-of-leveon-bell-in-kerryon-johnson

How Kerryon Johnson became Auburn's touchdown machine (11-22-17):  http://www.espn.com/blog/sec/post/_/id/130808/how-kerryon-johnson-became-auburns-touchdown-machine

How Kerryon Johnson learned to develop patience as a running back (11-22-17):  http://www.al.com/auburnfootball/index.ssf/2017/11/kerryon_johnson_patience.html

MTS Notes: Biggest NFL draft risers; Scouting Lamar Jackson ( Based on a combination of my own evaluation of these players along with what I hear from scouting sources, I believe these 5 players have helped themselves as much as any in the country in 2017 - 4. Auburn RB Kerryon Johnson: Auburn's star rusher has quickly emerged as one of the most impressive backs in the country. He has exploded down the stretch for the Tigers and a big game against Alabama on Saturday would look great on his resume. He's generating a lot of buzz in scouting circles.  Player to watch in the Iron Bowl - The Iron Bowl is clearly the game of the week in college football. Alabama and Auburn are both ranked in the top 6 in the College Football Playoff rankings and a berth in the SEC Championship Game is on the line.  As is the case every year, Alabama is loaded with NFL talent. However, Auburn has one of the best rosters in the country as well. After studying Auburn's offense this week, one player jumped off the screen: RB Kerryon Johnson.  Johnson is listed at 6-foot and 212 pounds, and as I mentioned above, he's one of this season's biggest risers. I came away very impressed with his combination of vision, lateral quickness and burst after I watched his tape. He has a running style that's reminiscent of Le'Veon Bell. He's patient and incorporates a slight skip before finding a crease and exploding through the line of scrimmage. He also shows the ability to drop his shoulder and power through contact. He's been reliable as a pass-catcher out of the backfield, including on an impressive one-handed snag against Georgia. I was pleasantly surprised at how well he held up in pass protection. He has displayed awareness to identify blitzing linebackers and he does a nice job staying square and settling down vs. power rushers.  Johnson is one of the most complete backs in the country and he could be set up for a big day against an Alabama defense that's been decimated by injuries. -- Daniel Jeremiah) (11-22-17):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000881193/article/mts-notes-biggest-nfl-draft-risers-scouting-lamar-jackson

Stock Report: Auburn's Johnson catching eye of Heisman voters, NFL scouts (Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn, JR. (5-11, 212, 4.45, #21):  There is a list of reasons why Auburn knocked off No. 1 ranked Georgia, but Johnson belongs at the top of the list. The junior posted 233 yards of total offense (167 yards rushing, 66 yards receiving) and became the first player this season to rush for over 100 yards against Georgia's defense.  Johnson, who leads the SEC in rushing yards (1,035) and rushing touchdowns (15), is a slippery runner due to his lateral movement skills and quick decision-making skills, making it a chore on defenders to square him up and finish him to the ground. He is high-cut and long-legged for the position, but those strides allow him to accelerate in a hurry, reaching the second level before defenders can react.  Johnson has seen his workload increase since Kamryn Pettway's injury and he has responded well, averaging 30.6 offensive touches in the past five games without any signs of slowing down. Johnson might not be a NFL Combine marvel, but his running back-specific traits are why he has been so productive, including his patience to allow Auburn's dominant offensive line to do its job.) (11-13-17):  http://tsxfiles.com/blog/2017/11/13/stock-report-auburns-johnson-catching-eye-of-heisman-voters-nfl-scouts/

Georgia at Auburn score, highlights: No. 10 Tigers put the hurt on No. 1 Bulldogs (Tiger running back Kerryon Johnson was a monster, rushing for 167 yards on 32 carries and catching two passes for 66 yards and a touchdown.  4. Kerryon Johnson needs to be in the Heisman conversation: Johnson missed two games in September but has been the driving force behind Auburn's newfound place in the national spotlight. He's at 1,035 yards for the year with 15 rushing touchdowns -- two as a receiver -- and he's found his stride as an every-down back who always seems to fall forward despite a reputation of being more of a slasher early in his Auburn career. He's on a similar pat to former Tiger running back Tre Mason, who was a Heisman finalist during that 2013 season. He came on strong, led Auburn to an unlikely BCS National Championship Game berth and finished sixth.  Johnson will need some help to win -- most notably, Oklahoma quarterback Baker Mayfield stumbling in a big spot -- but this kind of performance on a big stage should earn Johnson serious consideration and a trip to New York during the second weekend of December.) (11-12-17):  https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/georgia-at-auburn-score-highlights-no-10-tigers-put-the-hurt-on-no-1-bulldogs/

2018 NFL Draft watch: Marquee matchups help sort out top prospects (Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn — Not only did the 6-foot, 212-pound junior run for 167 yards on 32 carries, he caught two passes for 66 yards and a touchdown in Auburn's 40-17 rout of No. 1 Georgia. Johnson now has over 1,000 rushing yards on the season and did a lot Saturday to boost his draft stock.) (11-12-17):  http://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-georgia-auburn-wisconsin-alabama-sooners-baker-mayfield/4m6o4ag7agcu154a1o4xnphzs

Week 11 Prospect Matchups (Week 6 riser Kerryon Johnson is in the midst of a dominant season at Auburn. The junior is a big back with an explosive burst as well as the strength to barrel over defenders and pick up a lot of yardage off initial contact. Johnson also displays terrific short-area quickness, and while he's best running downhill, he can bounce around piles or defenders and find the clearing in the defense. In seven games this season, he’s amassed 868 yards rushing and 15 touchdowns.   Johnson will have his hands full Saturday when he faces the top linebacker unit in college football.) (11-10-17):  http://draftanalyst.com/week-11-prospect-matchups

2018 NFL Draft watch: Baker Mayfield, Mason Rudolph add bedlam to QB rankings (Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn — Johnson, a junior, got back on track in a 42-27 win over Texas A&M by rushing for 145 yards and a touchdown, while also adding 29 yards and another score through the air. Johnson amassed just 78 total yards last week against Arkansas, but he had previously eclipsed 100 yards in three straight games, including a 204-yard, three-touchdown outburst against Ole Miss Oct. 7. Johnson is a big powerful back that can be a workhorse at the next level, but he is also a receiving threat out of the backfield.) (11-4-17):  http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-baker-mayfield-mason-rudolph-rankings-bedlam/1nqmgy8t220dx151uu2tz8fxrn

2018 NFL draft watch: LSU's D.J. Chark heads list of sleepers climbing the draft board (Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn  — The 6-0, 212-pound junior has shown flashes of brilliance this season, and looked great again Saturday against LSU (31 carries, 156 yards and a TD). His receiving skills could make him most valuable in a spread offense or as a third-down back.) (10-15-17):  http://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-football/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-ncaa-fbs-stars-highlights-sleepers-dj-chark/10ptpc793lxanzqzx51ch0t1u

Week 6 Risers and Sliders (Kerryon Johnson/RB/Auburn: We stamped Johnson as a potential fifth-round pick during our Auburn prospect preview, but the junior has definitely improved his draft grade since then. Against Mississippi, he posted 204 yards rushing and three touchdowns on 28 carries (7.3 yard average), and Johnson has rushed for more than 100 yards in three of the four games he’s suited up for this season. He’s an explosive back with nice size as well as an excellent burst, which helps him pick up big chunks of yardage from the line of scrimmage.) (10-9-17):  http://draftanalyst.com/week-6-risers-sliders

2018 NFL Draft Watch: Saquon Barkley continues to showcase his skills (Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn — Johnson, a 6-foot, 212-pound junior tallied 116 rushing yards on 23 carries and scored three times as the 13th-ranked Tigers rolled to a 49-10 win over No. 24 Mississippi State. Johnson appears to be back on track following a hamstring injury in Week 1, when he ran for 136 yards against Georgia Southern.) (10-1-17):  http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-saquon-barkley-nick-chubb-jordan-chunn-troy/1k1zpddd3xptb1kdw4vx901pf2