Highlights from Reese’s Senior Bowl practices usually consist of impressive route running from talented receivers or a cell of quarterbacks showing off their arm talent. The 2022 cycle is slightly different, however, as a myriad of tweets and articles are being published regarding the astounding play from the defensive line group.
By far the most exciting and deepest group here in Ladd-Peoples Stadium are the big defenders of the front seven tasked with rushing the passer and plugging run lanes. Although the edge rushes generally take center stage at these sorts of events, the prospects of the interior have also shined too.
The 2022 NFL Draft class boasts one of the deepest and most well-rounded edge defender groups in recent memory, with a cadre of underclassmen occupying the top spots as well. The seniors and eligible juniors in Mobile this year are equally impressive and are deserving of all of the recognition they have received this week.
Today, we’ll take a deeper look at the players who have shined the brightest here at the Senior Bowl in addition to a few lesser-known prospects who deserve a spotlight.
Shining Stars
Jermaine Johnson II – EDGE – Florida State
What a journey Johnson has had in the last five years, coming to Georgia by way of Independence Community College, to transferring again in December of 2020 to Florida State. And now, the former four-star recruit out of Eden Prairie High School is being considered for a first-round pick in the upcoming 2022 NFL Draft.
Johnson enjoyed a breakout season in 2021, one in which he led the American Coastal Conference in sacks with 11.5, earning a Defensive Player of the Year award for his troubles. Johnson played with an incredibly high motor and physicality while hitting opposing offensive linemen with a bevy of good rush moves to leverage outside pressure.