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Derrick Johnson

By James Alder, About.com

Position:

Outside Linebacker

School :

Texas Longhorns

Status:

Junior

Height:

6-4

Weight:

230

40-Yard Dash:

N/A

Positives:

Derrick Johnson is a very aggressive player with great football instincts. He is an explosive hitter with great closing speed, who rarely misses a tackle. He has blazing top-end speed and plays from sideline to sideline, always taking great angles. He also matches up well with running backs and tight ends in pass coverage. Plays his best in open space
Johnson is a big-play linebacker who always seems to bring his best efforts in the big games. He has a non-stop motor and plays with a lot of passion. He also has a great attitude, is tough, and has a tremendous work ethic.

Negatives:

There is little to not like about Johnson's game, but he could stand to bulk up a bit. He also tends to have a little trouble getting off blocks by bigger offensive linemen.

Projection:

Derrick Johnson has had a huge impact on the Longhorn's defense and is undoubtably the best linebacker in this year's class. He will most likely be a top-10 pick in the 2005 NFL Draft.

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