Pass Protection: Johnson has powerful leg drive and squares up with his matchup while moving, either back or on an angle, allowing him to mirror effectively. Johnson keeps his knees bent in his slide to absorb power head-on and counter.
Balance: Johnson possesses great balance and doesn’t overextend. He stays square and doesn’t get caught lunging.
Hand Placement: Johnson has a powerful initial punch to jar his opponent off the line of scrimmage. When he gets ahold of his matchup, Johnson has a strong grip that allows him to steer the defender wherever he wants.
Football IQ: Johnson’s ability to identify delayed blitzes and defensive bluffs before the snap makes him a leader on the offensive line. Johnson plays with high-level anticipation
Power: Johnson can sink his hips and lay into his matchup off the snap. He’s a finisher in the run game who plays with a mean streak. In pass sets, he’s far from passive.
Anchor: Despite being 6’6, Johnson has a strong anchor because of his strong core and his naturally wide base. That being said, in short-yardage situations, Johnson can be beaten by defenders able to get underneath his pads and drive back.
Flexibility: Johnson has good lower body flexibility and loose hips.
Versatility: Naturally a tackle, Johnson played right guard last year in order to help the Buckeyes get their 5 best linemen on the field. He’ll be playing left tackle this coming season, but he also has the skills to play on the right (8)
Movement Skills: Johnson’s quick feet and lower body flexibility allow him to be used on pulls and screens. He’s able to climb to the second level easily due to his high-level athleticism.
Footwork/Foot Speed: A technician in both run blocking and pass sets, Johnson’s footwork is great. His feet don’t stop moving and he doesn’t waste steps.
