Kansas City Chiefs Scouting Report: Austin Johnson
With the draft quickly approaching, it’s time to look at a player that would be a great addition to the already stout Kansas City Chiefs defensive line.
Penn State defensive tackle Austin Johnson is a big player that could make a big impact early in his NFL career.
Going in to the 2016 season the Kansas City Chiefs are in good shape in regards to the roster. They have few holes that need to be filled after a few key re-signings in the off-season. This gives the Chiefs options when it comes to the draft where they can draft talent to continue to build a solid team that will last for years to come.
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In the past, John Dorsey and Andy Reid have shown that they will pick the best talent on the board, no matter what the needs of the team may be. With the Chiefs having one of the best defensive fronts in the NFL it is important that they continue building that front to improve where possible.
Austin Johnson is a Defensive tackle out of Penn State, he is entering the draft a year early, but after a dominant season where he recorded 6.5 sacks.
According to cbssports.com Johnson is a big man that also possesses good strength. He is able to shed blockers, where he shows his exceptional awareness to get to the ball or the quarterback. Austin Johnson seems to rely a lot on effort more than skill or technique which could prove an issue when going head to head with the skilled linemen of the NFL.
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He has the size but he, like many larger players, does not possess the speed to be a pass rusher in the NFL. Johnson would be a valuable player against the run. Being able to stuff running lanes and allowing the linebackers to clean up and get the tackle.
According to NFL.com, Austin Johnson does not use his hands enough, and he can be knocked off balance early with his tendency to not get his pad level right. He also lacks the length to be a usual stack and shed nose, it is also said that he does not show signs of being a pass rusher in the league but like said previously will be a valuable run stuffer.
He shows promise, if he would be able to transfer his skills to the defensive-end position then he could make a early impact for the Chiefs. With Dontari Poe being the sure starter he could sit behind him and learn from one of the best in the NFL, making an impact later.
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CBS sports has Johnson projected as a second round pick, this could be a viable option for Kansas City because there are few holes that need to be filled, and if he can play to his potential could be a very good player for the Kansas City Chiefs.