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Thursday, January 22, 2009
To play or not to play
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Like a bunch of top players, defensive end Michael Johnson is not at the Senior Bowl this week. At least one expert believes Johnson is making a mistake.
Chris Maier, senior editor at NFLDraft101.com, includes Johnson among five players he says should have shown up, unless they are hurt. (Johnson is healthy). Here is his Senior Bowl preview.
Even so, Johnson is projected to go 20th in a lot of mock drafts. The bad news is the Detroit Lions own that pick. They need everything, with quarterback and pass rusher at the top of the list.
NFLDraft101.com’s profile on Johnson says he “has the ideal frame to be a disruptive pass rusher at the next level. Long arms help with separation from offensive tackles. Very athletic, yet still disciplined as a pass rusher.”
It goes on to say that “the big question mark for Johnson is his ability to play the run.”
Can’t argue with any of that.
Johnson’s linemate, Vance Walker, is participating in the Senior Bowl and has shown a good bull rush in practices.
According to the Website, Walker is a “late bloomer who has flown under the radar due to the presence of DE Michael Johnson. Has good burst off the ball and is senior class’ best all-around DT, showing strong run stopping and pass rushing skills.”
His weakness? “Undersized at 6-2, 295.”
I’ve seen Walker projected anywhere from the 2nd to the 4th round.
The NFL Network will show the South team’s practice at 5 p.m. today, with a recap show airing at 8 p.m. The game airs at 7 p.m. Saturday.
So, do you think Michael Johnson made the right move?
